A comprehensive evaluation of Y2O3-doped alumina coatings for lead-cooled fast reactors

• Published in: Surface & coatings technology 2024-09, Vol.492, p.131207, Article 131207
• Main Authors: Zhong, Yilong, Yang, Jian, Zhou, Mingyang, Wu, Lu, Zhang, Wei, Wang, Rongshuo, Li, Yudong, Liu, Ning, Long, Ziyao, Yang, Jijun
• Format: Article
• Language: English
• Subjects: LBE corrosion resistance; Lead-bismuth eutectic (LBE); Mechanical property; Y2O3-doped alumina coatings
• ISSN: 0257-8972
• DOI: 10.1016/j.surfcoat.2024.131207

Y2O3-doped alumina coatings were successfully prepared on steel and a comprehensive evaluation of multiple mechanical properties (hardness, wear resistance, bonding force) and lead-bismuth eutectic (LBE) corrosion resistance with different conditions (temperatures, oxygen contents, and flow rates) was done. The results showed that the mechanical properties of the coating were closely related to the Y2O3 content, although the coating still maintained amorphous regardless of it. Coating crystallization started at the interface between the coating and substrate during corrosion, showing a radial pattern that expanded in out-coating directions, eventually causing shell-like flaking, which was a positive correlation with the Y2O3 content and corrosion temperature and had no significant relationship with the O content in LBE and the flow rate. The detailed structural evolution of the coating after corrosion is elucidated in detail. •Small Y2O3 improves the coating's mechanical properties, while the large worsens.•Y2O3 deteriorates the coating's corrosion resistance by promoting flaking.•Crystallization is the reason behind shell-like flaking on some coatings.