Effects of alloyed Si on the autoclave corrosion performance and periodic corrosion kinetics in Zr-Sn-Nb-Fe-O alloys

This paper investigates the effect of alloyed Si on the autoclave corrosion performance and corrosion mechanisms of Zr-Sn-Nb-Fe-O alloys. Quantitative analyses are performed on the microstructure of alloys and their oxide behavior. The Si-containing alloy possesses improved corrosion resistance. The reason is that a trace of Si enhances the strength of alloy and thus slows the evolution of undulated interface of oxide/metal which is associated with the formation of cracks in the oxide. The generation of cracks is discussed in further detail in relation to corrosion kinetics. This work advances the understanding of improving the corrosion resistance of zirconium alloys.