Canadian researchers at the University of Saskatchewan utilized the Canadian Light Source synchrotron to examine the impacts of hydrogen embrittlement on steel. By employing advanced micro-computed tomography imaging, the team was able to capture detailed 3D views of cracks formed in pipeline steels, shedding light on the detrimental effects of hydrogen diffusion in the material. The study emphasized the crucial role of microstructure in determining hydrogen absorption and distribution in steel, highlighting the increased vulnerability of steel to cracking under hydrogen exposure. It was found that hydrogen introduced during service poses a higher risk of damage compared to pre-charging conditions, necessitating a deeper understanding of failure mechanisms and mitigation strategies. The research underscores the importance of refining steel microstructures to enhance resistance to hydrogen embrittlement, a key factor in ensuring the safety and reliability of future hydrogen infrastructure. As industries aim to utilize hydrogen for large-scale applications like utility infrastructure, insights from this study can inform the development of safer pipelines. Furthermore, the study points out that addressing hydrogen-steel interaction is essential for the successful transition to cleaner energy sources, underlining the broader environmental and economic implications of mitigating hydrogen embrittlement in steel.