Characterization of Ni–20Cr–5Al model alloy in supercritical water

MCrAlY is a class of coating materials that provide corrosion and oxidation resistance to many Ni and Fe based alloys by forming dense alumina layer on the surface. In order to assess its potential as corrosion resistant coatings on components in supercritical water cooled nuclear reactors (SWCR), a Ni–20Cr–5Al model alloy is tested in SCW (500 °C and 25 MPa) for over 6000 h. The long term corrosion behavior of the samples with various surface preparations is evaluated by measuring weight change and examining surface microstructure and oxide formation. The results show that surface preparation alone can lead to changes in weight gain as great as an order of magnitude. Smooth and near stress free surface allows for more oxidation to take place in SCW, hence more weight change. Simple grinding with abrasive paper yields the least and most stable weight change while grit blasting has some effect in reducing weight gain. Comparing to other alloys tested under similar condition, Ni–20Cr–5Al has the lowest weight change. Although not detected, the formation of Al2O3 or an Al modified Cr2O3 superficial layer is likely the reason for such low weight change.