In relation to chlorine stress corrosion cracking, ferritic stainless steels are generally described as

• A. Not resistant
• B. Resistant
• C. Susceptible to transgranular cracking
• D. Immune to all cracking

Answer: (B)

Ferritic stainless steels tend to be resistant to chlorine stress corrosion cracking under typical service conditions because their ferritic (BCC) structure and chromium-rich passive film make them less prone to crack initiation and propagation in chloride environments. The protective oxide layer on these steels remains effective against chloride attack, and the microstructure does not promote the same cracking pathways seen in more susceptible alloys. That said, they are not immune—cracking can still occur under severe conditions (high chloride concentration, high stress, elevated temperature). The description as resistant reflects the general tendency, not an absolute guarantee.