caustic embrittlement

caustic embrittlement

[′kȯ·stik im′brid·əl·mənt] (metallurgy) Intercrystalline cracking of steel caused by exposure to caustic solutions above 70°C while under tensile stress; once common in riveted boilers. Also known as caustic cracking.

caustic embrittlement

A type of embrittlement in the metal at joints and the ends of tubes in steam boilers; due to the chemical composition of the boiler water; may lead to failure of the metal.