Transmission electron microscopy (TEM) on oxide layers formed on D9 stainless steel in lead bismuth eutectic (LBE)

► TEM on oxide layers formed on stainless steel in lead-bismuth eutectic is shown. ► Three distinct oxide layers are identified. ► Nano pores were found in the inner oxide layer formed in lead-bismuth eutectic. ► A two phase de-composed nano structure was identified in the inner oxide layer. ► Depletion of Ni along fast diffusion paths like grain boundaries is shown.