Deformation–corrosion interactions for Zr alloys during I-SCC crack initiation: Part I: Chemical contributions

For a better understanding of the initiation step of iodine-induced stress corrosion cracking in Zr alloys, responsible for pellet–cladding interaction (PCI) fuel rod failures, an analytical study has been undertaken, the aim of which being focused on the respective roles of local chemistry and stre...

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Bibliographic Details
Published in:Journal of nuclear materials 1999-01, Vol.264 (3), p.239-248
Main Authors: Jacques, Patrick, Lefebvre, Florence, Lemaignan, Clément
Format: Article
Language:English
Subjects:
Applied sciences
Energy
Exact sciences and technology
Fuels
Nuclear fuels
Preparation and processing of nuclear fuels
Online Access:Get full text
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Summary:For a better understanding of the initiation step of iodine-induced stress corrosion cracking in Zr alloys, responsible for pellet–cladding interaction (PCI) fuel rod failures, an analytical study has been undertaken, the aim of which being focused on the respective roles of local chemistry and stress/strain state on the crack nucleation. This first part is mostly related to the chemical environment. From the tensile tests performed under iodine rich and inert environments, it was concluded that no crack initiation could be detected following the tests in an inert atmosphere. The iodine induced stress corrosion initiation mechanism must therefore be analysed as a corrosion–strain interaction.
ISSN:0022-3115
1873-4820
DOI:10.1016/S0022-3115(98)00501-7