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Electrochemical corrosion of lanthanum chromite and yttrium chromite in coal slag

Conference ·
OSTI ID:5977620

Lanthanum chromites have long been considered as electrodes for magnetohydrodynamic (MHD) generator channels. These chromites, when doped with divalent ions such as Ca, Mg or Sr, have adequate electronic and electrical conductivity (2), and melting points greater than 2500/sup 0/K. However, above approx. 1850/sup 0/K, selective vapor loss of chromium results in the formation of a La/sub 2/O/sub 3/ phase. The La/sub 2/O/sub 3/ is hydroscopic at room temperature, resulting in a large volume change and loss of mechanical integrity when exposed to H/sub 2/O. The analogous yttrium chromites have thermal and electrical properties similar to that for the lanthanum chromites. Although vapor loss of Cr results in the formation of Y/sub 2/O/sub 3/, this oxide does not hydrate. Corrosion studies of yttrium chromite compositions show that doped YCrO/sub 3/ may be a viable MHD electrode. An electrochemical corrosion study of both magnesium-doped lanthanum and yttrium chromites in synthetic coal slag electrolytes is described. Possible chemical and electrochemical degradation phenomena, as well as the relative rates of corrosion are emphasized.

Research Organization:
Pacific Northwest Lab., Richland, WA (USA)
DOE Contract Number:
AC06-76RL01830
OSTI ID:
5977620
Report Number(s):
PNL-SA-9195; CONF-810675-5; ON: DE82003846
Country of Publication:
United States
Language:
English