Failure by liquid metal induced embrittlement

Liquid metal induced embrittlement (LMIE) refers to the loss of ductility of normally ductile metals and alloys when stressed whilst in contact with a liquod metal. This paper describes the characteristics of LMIE with particular emphasis on how these may assist in the process of failure analysis and presents the distinctive features of LMIE fracture. A comprehensive review of the incidence of LMIE failures in practice illustrates the range of circumstances in which this phenomenon has manifested itself. Finally, the technological uses of LMIE are discussed.