Microstructure Effects on Ion and Electron Transport Parameters During Passive Corrosion of Zircaloy

摘要

Analytical models have been developed and numerical predictions have been made to quantify the effect of zirconia microstructure (grain boundary and microcrack network) on ion and electron transport parameters. Analytical predictions are shown to agree with the available data, supporting a large microstructure effect on ion diffusion and a small effect on electron mobility. Results of this analysis have been interpreted in terms of the zircaloy corrosion process to conclude: (1) the transition process predominantly affects ion transport resistance and has relatively little effect on electron transport and (2) medium penetration into the zirconia film during transition is not necessary to initiate loss of corrosion protection. (ERA citation 11:020276)