AMPP Basic Corrosion Certification Practice Exam

Liquid metal embrittlement (LME) occurs when a liquid metal penetrates the grain boundaries of a solid metal, leading to reduced ductility and risk of fracture under stress. In the context of titanium alloys, molten cadmium is a well-documented agent that can cause LME.

Cadmium interacts with titanium at elevated temperatures, leading to a weakening of the metal's crystalline structure. This reaction occurs primarily at the interfaces within the titanium alloy, which compromises the material's inherent strength and ductility. When mechanical or thermal stress is applied, the already weakened areas become susceptible to cracking and failure.

While other metals listed can indeed cause issues in certain contexts, the specific interaction of cadmium with titanium results in a pronounced vulnerability to embrittlement, making it a significant concern in industries that utilize titanium alloys under conditions where cadmium exposure might be a risk.