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Irradiation effects on the electrochemistry and corrosion resistance of stainless steel

Journal Article · · Corrosion
DOI:https://doi.org/10.5006/1.3293571· OSTI ID:187046
; ;  [1];  [2]
  1. Pacific Northwest Lab., Richland, WA (United States)
  2. Washington State Univ., Pullman, WA (United States)

Nickel ion radiation at 500 C was shown to have a strong effect on the surface electrochemistry and intergranular corrosion (IGC) of stainless steel (SS). Measured current densities in a 1 N sulfuric acid solution at room temperature were increased at active-passive, passive, and transpassive potentials. Radiation effects on the current decay behavior and susecptibility to IGC were similar for a fine-grained (FG) S alloy and for a very large-grained (LG) SS. Radiation-induced segregation (RIS) at the surface was believed to promote higher currents at short times, whereas segregation at grain boundaries was responsible for IG attack. Analytical electron microscopy (AEM) measurements revealed chromium and iron depletion plus Ni and silicon enrichment at grain boundaries in irradiated specimens. Si enhanced dissolution at transpassive potentials, whereas Cr depletion did the same at active-passive and passive potentials.

Sponsoring Organization:
USDOE
DOE Contract Number:
AC06-76RL01830
OSTI ID:
187046
Journal Information:
Corrosion, Journal Name: Corrosion Journal Issue: 1 Vol. 51; ISSN 0010-9312; ISSN CORRAK
Country of Publication:
United States
Language:
English