Diffusion-induced stresses in a hollow cylinder with constant stress at boundary surfaces are investigated. The solute diffusion follows Fick's law. In order to maintain stress constant at the boundaries, the surface concentration is determined using Laplace transformation. Then using the Duhamel method, we obtain the concentration distribution. The radial stress, tangential stress and axial stress for zero axial force are calculated. From the numerical results, we study the possibility to avoid the mechanical failure including plastic deformation and fracture. In summary, the present solution is the fastest mass transfer process in the hollow cylinder without plastic deformation. (C)2000 Published by Elsevier Science S.A. All rights reserved.