A system for detecting the formation of a crack in a metal joint includes an electrochemical electrical current detection device. Carrier material surrounds the metal joint, at least partially, with conductive media having electrolyte therein. An auxiliary electrode is in electrical contact with the carrier material. The placement of the auxiliary electrode in electrical contact with carrier material forms a passive layer on the metal joint. The formation of a crack in the metal joint ruptures the passive layer to generate a current for detection by the electrochemical electrical current detection device.