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Reinforced concrete structures play a key role in modern infrastructure, however, corrosion of reinforcement poses a serious threat to their durability and safety. In this study, the sensitivity of a portable X-ray fluorescence analyzer (XRF) to corrosion products on the concrete surface is considered. The experiment was conducted using concrete samples containing varying amounts of iron hydroxide. The results showed that the FRA demonstrates high accuracy and reliability in detecting corrosion, which contributes to the improvement of diagnostic methods and maintenance of reinforced concrete structures.

Autoclave corrosion testing has been used for many years; however, few have studied the effect of its shortcomings on the formation of corrosion products and corrosion behaviour. In particular, understanding of these effects under high temperature and high pressure (HTHP) is rare. In this study, we highlighted the important parameters such as heating periods, flow rates and volume-to-surface ratios influencing carbon steel corrosion in the early stages. Especially, characterisation and protection behaviour of corrosion products associated with corrosion behaviour in the heating stage under the geothermal CO2-containing environment were systematically studied via mass loss, in-situ electrochemistry and surface analysis techniques. The roles of pCO2, volume-to-surface ratio and flow rate influence the formation of the corrosion products in the early stage are also evaluated.

The findings of this study indicate that Cr-advanced steels exhibit increased corrosion resistance when Ni is incorporated into the alloy. To investigate this phenomenon, the corrosion products and corrosion behavior of Cr-advanced steels with varying Ni contents were evaluated in CO2-saturated NaCl solutions at 90 and 180 °C. The underlying corrosion resistance mechanism can be elucidated from two distinct perspectives. At 90 °C, the addition of Ni into Cr-advanced steels causes the transformation of Fe oxides to NiFe2O4, and it offers superior protection for steel. In addition, the NiFe2O4 phase generated with electronegative properties can enhance the adsorption of Fe2+, thereby promoting the precipitation of FeCO3 crystals. Furthermore, the residual Ni in the inner film continues to serve a pivotal role in the filling of a considerable number of pores and cracks. Upon comprehensive evaluation of the associated costs, the Cr-advanced steel with enhanced corrosion resistance through the incorporation of 1.0 wt% Ni content provides a potential alternative to a conventional 3Cr steel in a CO2 environment. On the other hand, at 180 °C, the concentrations of Fe2+ and CO32− are significantly higher than the solubility of FeCO3 in initial corrosion, which is conducive to generate a denser nanometer-size FeCO3 layer with a better protectiveness, and thus, the effect of Ni is significantly weakened.

Abstract HRB500E rebar is a low-alloy high-strength steel with excellent mechanical properties and good plasticity but suffers from deficient corrosion resistance. This can be solved by adding trace elements, including rare earth elements. Herein, the corrosion-resistant behavior of rebar was evaluated by weightlessness testing and electrochemical measurements, and the effects of Ce on the structural evolution of the corrosion product layer were investigated by scanning electron microscopy (SEM), Electron Probe X-ray Micro-Analyzer (EPMA), X-ray diffraction (XRD), and X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS). The results showed that adding Ce to the rebar improved the densification of the reinforcing surface corrosion products, as well as reduced the corrosion rate of the experimental rebar. Compared to C0 sample without Ce, the rebar sample containing 0.044 wt.% Ce displayed increased Ecorr by 0.051 V, decreased Icorr by 15.573 mA cm−2, enhanced Rc of the corrosion product layer by 112.71 Ω cm2, incremented α-FeOOH content in the corrosion product layer, and boosted ratio of α/γ* in the corrosion product layer by 10.11%. Furthermore, the oxide (CeO2) formed by Ce in the corrosion layer of the rebar bar surface existed in the rust layer, resulting in a stable corrosion product layer with improved blocking ability of the corrosive medium. Overall, the addition of Ce at certain ratios looks promising to produce HRB500E rebar with excellent corrosion resistance and extended service life under harsh conditions.

Concentrated solar power (CSP) photothermal power generation technology utilizes renewable clean energy solar energy to convert thermal energy into electrical energy, offering promising application prospects. In CSP technology, molten salt serves as the medium for heat absorption and storage. Thus, the research and development of molten salt and salt storage materials are key. In this paper, the corrosion behaviors of different salt storage materials in molten salt media such as molten nitrate, carbonate, chlorine and fluoride salts were analyzed from the perspectives of corrosion kinetics, corrosion products and molten salt intrinsic properties. Finally, molten salt and salt storage materials for solar photothermal power generation were summarized, and the prospects were discussed.

Sacrificial metallic coatings are an effective strategy for mitigating corrosion in steel operating in industrial environments. This review article focuses on examining the protection mechanism of zinc-aluminum-magnesium (Zn-Al-Mg) coatings on steel substrates. Specifically, it investigates the effects of various elements and their corrosion products on the corrosion resistance of Zn-Al-Mg coatings. Furthermore, this review summarizes the formation mechanisms of various specialized corrosion modes that occur following the corrosion of Zn-Al-Mg coatings, based on previous experimental findings. It also includes suggestions for further research areas that could contribute to the development of highly corrosion-resistant and long-lasting coatings. These suggestions are based on published laboratory and field test results available in literature.

The characterization and evolution of corrosion products deposited on/around MnSs, a typical kind of inclusive particle embedded in AISI 304 stainless steel, was analyzed using a quasi-in-situ method in a 3.5 wt.% NaCl solution. On/around the MnS inclusion, a corrosion product layer with spinel Fe3−xCrxO4 as the main component was formed, with a thickness of several hundred nanometers. Below the layer, there was a cavity layer in which part of the MnS remained, forming secondary pitting along the MnS/matrix boundary. The mechanism of corrosion product deposition and evolution accompanied by MnS dissolution, as well as the characteristics of the corrosion products, are discussed.

In order to control the radiation source term and reduce the collective dose during overhaul， the characterization methods such as scanning electron microscopy，focused ion beam transmission electron microscopy and positron annihilation were employed to study the effects of the oxidation operation process on the deposition behavior of corrosion products on the surface of the 690TT alloy in the steam generator of typical equipment.Results showed that a double-layer oxide film structure was formed on the surface of the 690TT alloy sample after pretreatment.The outer oxide layer was composed of nickel ferrite NixFe3－x O4， and the inner oxide layer was composed of chromium rich spinel NixFeyCr3－x－yO4.After short-term acid shutdown and oxidation operation， the sample exhibited a cross-sectional structure of the substrate， inner oxide film， outer oxide film and sediments.The inner oxide layer was chromium-rich， the outer oxide layer was partially dissolved， and the sediments were metallic nickel.During the oxidation operation stage， the solubility and redox status of metal elements on the sample surface were changed， promoting the dissolution of nickel ions on the sample surface， inhibiting the deposition of nickel elements on the sample surface， and significantly reducing the amount of sediments.Based on the experimental results， a dissolution deposition model on the surface of nickel-chromium-iron alloy was established.

To determine the composition of inhomogeneous samples using the method of laser-spark emission spectrometry, calibration dependences are used, which can have significant systematic errors that significantly affect the determination of the quantitative composition of elements. Sample inhomogeneity also causes inaccuracies in replicate measurements. To reduce errors, multi-signal calibration and internal standard methods are used, which can significantly improve accuracy when changing experimental conditions and eliminate the need to purchase ex-pensive standard samples.

In order to study the corrosion resistance and mechanism of a new type of acid resistant steel (LGNS-P) in sulfuric acid containing environments, Q345B carbon steel was used as a comparative material, and the corrosion behavior of two types of steels before and after the full immersion test was observed and tested through sulfuric acid accelerated corrosion test, corrosion weight loss analysis, SEM observation of corrosion morphology, and electrochemical potentiodynamic polarization tests. Results showed that the corrosion degree of LGNS-P was obviously less than Q345B, and the corrosion rate was gradually decreased during the test cycles. By contrast, the corrosion rate of Q345B increased first and then decreased, reaching its maximum after 240 h of testing. Compared to Q345B, the corrosion product layer of LGNS-P was more uniform and denser, which blocked the direct contact between corrosive ions and the substrate to some extent. In addition, there were some Fe oxides on the surface of both steels, but Sb oxides were also found on the surface of LGNS-P, which had certain acid resistance and could enhance the bonding ability of the corrosion product layer and the substrate. Overall, the above differences caused the significant improvement of acid corrosion resistance of LGNS-P

The effects of marine Streptomyces on the corrosion process of X65 steel were investigated by a complete characterization of metabolites using untargeted metabolomics, combined with surface analysis and electrochemical measurements. The results showed that the organic acid produced by Streptomyces accelerated the average corrosion rate of X65 steel in the early stage, but the formation of special “honeycomb” corrosion product structure promoted the enrichment of protein/polysaccharide in metabolites on the metal surface in the middle stage, and the biomineralized film was denser, which slowed down the corrosion especially localized corrosion. In the later stage, the corrosion was intensified due to the shedding of the protective film layer, but no obvious pitting corrosion was observed. In addition, the unique antimicrobial-like metabolites have potential applications in the field of microbiologically influenced corrosion inhibition by microbial control methods.

The corrosion behavior of Ni-Cr-Mo-V high strength steel in the simulated deep-sea environment under different hydrostatic pressure and immersion time is investigated using electrochemical techniques, microscopic morphology observation and Raman spectrometer. During the first 10 days immersion, the corrosion rate presents wave-like changes. The corrosion rate under different hydrostatic pressure tends to be stable after 10 days immersion. The area with uneven composition will preferentially dissolve and form corrosion pits. The local corrosion takes the corrosion pit as the center, expands and fuses around, and finally forms uniform corrosion. High hydrostatic pressure promotes β-FeOOH transforming into other corrosion products. The anode of the steel tends to active dissolution and the cathode show oxygen diffusion control characteristics at the initial stage of corrosion. Under 20 MPa, step-shape passivation appears in the anode region. Due to the rapid reaction, the corrosion product film has poor protection performance and dissolves, which resulting in not obvious passivation phenomenon.

In this work, two methods were used to accelerate the corrosion of concrete. In the first method, chloride ions were injected into the concrete using the migration method. The moment of the initiation of the corrosion process was monitored using an electrochemical method of measuring polarization resistance. In the next step, the corrosion process was accelerated by the electrolysis process. Changes on the sample surface were also monitored using a camera. In the second method, the corrosion process of the reinforcing bar was initiated by the use of the electrolysis process only. Here, changes occurring on the surfaces of the tested sample were recorded using two web cameras placed on planes perpendicular to each other. Continuous measurement of the current flowing through the system was carried out in both cases. It was assumed that in conditions of natural corrosion, a crack would occur when the sum of the mass loss of the reinforcing bar due to corrosion reached the same value in tcr(real) (real time) as it reached in the tcr (time of cracking) during the accelerated corrosion test. The real time value was estimated for C1 concrete with cement CEM I. The estimated value was tcr(real) = 1.1 years and for C2 concrete with cement CEM III, tcr(real) = 11.2 years. However, the main difference that was observed during the tests was the nature of the concrete cracks. In the case of the C1 concrete sample, these occurred along the reinforcing bar, while in the C2 concrete, the failures occurred on a perpendicular plane transverse to the direction of the reinforcing bar.

During the power operation of nuclear reactors, the corrosion products in the secondary circuit will deposit on the inside of Helical-coiled One-Through Steam Generator (H-OTSG) heat transfer tubes and form fouling. The main component of fouling is iron-based oxide, which generates from the heat exchangers made of cast iron. Fouling may change the local heat transfer characteristics of heat transfer tubes, and then affect the safety and economy of reactors. In order to obtain the distribution of fouling thickness and its action mechanism on helical tubes heat transfer characteristics, the heat transfer experiment under small pressurized reactors service environment was conducted. The experimental results indicate: corrosion products mainly deposit on onset of saturated boiling point with the maximum fouling thickness of 50 μm, and induce local wall temperature elevating about 773 K; fouling will increase the thermal equilibrium void fraction and hinder the heat transfer of helical tube, but has little impact on the onset position of saturated boiling point; corrosion products will release and re-deposit near dry-out point because of the flush of high speed vapor, causing the periodic fluctuation of thermal resistance of helical tube.

The reproduction of archaeological corrosion patinas is a key issue for the reliable validation of conservation materials before their use on cultural objects. In this study, bronze disks were intentionally buried for 15 years in the soil of the archaeological site of Tharros, both in laboratory and in situ, with the aim of reproducing corrosion patinas typical of archaeological artifacts to be used as representative surfaces for testing novel cleaning gels. The microstructural, microchemical and mineralogical features of the patinas were analyzed by a multianalytical approach, based on optical microscopy (OM), field emission scanning electron microscopy coupled with energy dispersive spectrometry (FE-SEM-EDS) and X-ray diffraction (XRD). The patinas developed in 15 years were compared with an archaeological bronze recovered from the same site after about two thousand years of burial (referred as short-term and long-term interaction, respectively). Results revealed a similar corrosion behavior, especially in terms of chemical composition and corrosion mechanisms. XRD detected the ubiquitous presence of cuprite, copper hydroxychlorides and terrigenous minerals, while OM and FE-SEM-EDS analyses of cross-sections evidenced similar patinas’ stratigraphy, identifying decuprification as driving corrosion mechanism. However, some differences related to the type of local environment and to the time spent in soil were evidenced. In particular, patinas developed in situ are more heterogeneous and rougher, while the archaeological one is thicker and presents a major amount of cuprite, terrigenous deposits and uncommon corrosion compounds. Based on our findings, the disks buried in situ were selected and used as disposable substrates to study the cleaning effect of a novel polyvinyl alcohol (PVA)-based gel loaded with a chelating agent (Na2EDTA · 2H2O). Results show that the gel is effective in removing disfiguring degradation compounds and preserving the stable and protective patina. Based on the conservation needs, the time of application can be properly tuned. It is worth noticing that after a few minutes the green corrosion products can be selectively removed. The EDS analysis performed on the gels after cleaning reveals that they are highly selective for the removal of copper(II) compounds rather than Cu(I) oxide or Cu(0) from bronze substrates.

Thirteen Late Roman copper alloy coins with a dark concretion layer from the Early Islamic period Ma‘agan Mikhael B shipwreck were chosen to undergo an experimental chemical cleaning and polishing procedure for removing the concretion while limiting the damage to the surviving metal. These coins, and two more without concretion discovered on the beach nearby, were then subjected to a series of non-destructive analyses–visual testing, XRF, multi-focal light microscopy, and Raman spectroscopy–to determine their state of preservation, identify their corrosion products, and acquire information regarding their core material. An additional coin was examined by destructive metallographic light microscopy and SEM-EDS analyses to gain further information concerning the concretion cover. Preservation varied: For some chemically cleaned coins, a shiny orange-coloured metallic surface was exposed, while others were poorly preserved. Moreover, evidence of the stamping process was also observed. The results show that the suggested chemical cleaning treatment could be useful for processing other copper alloy objects retrieved from underwater environments; we propose a 12-step methodology to this effect.

Chloride ion is an important corrosion factor in marine environment. Chloride ion has a small radius and strong permeability, which can destroy the oxide film on the surface of marine structural steel. The uneven adsorption of chloride ion on the metal surface will cause pitting corrosion. The effect of chloride ion content on pitting corrosion of the as-cast and heat-treated Dispersion-Strengthened-High-Strength (DSHS) steel was studied by electrochemical test, composition analysis and surface analysis. The results showed that high content of chloride ion reduced the content of dissolved oxygen in the solution, and the corrosion rate of DSHS steel was the slowest in 5.0 wt.% NaCl solution. In high content chloride ion solution, the formation of α-FeOOH was inhibited and the protection of corrosion products was weakened. Pitting corrosion of DSHS steel before and after heat treatment was the most serious in 2.0 wt.% NaCl solution. After heat treatment, grain size of DSHS steel decreased, and more dense and stable protective corrosion products were produced. Therefore, the induction and development of pitting corrosion of heat-treated DSHS steel were inhibited.

The aerospace industry is constantly looking for innovative materials that exhibit good mechanical and corrosion properties. The 2198-T851 (Al-Cu-Li) alloy was developed to replace the conventional Al-Cu-Mg in aircraft structures. Despite the usefulness of the 2198-T851 alloy, its performance may be affected when subjected to an aggressive medium containing chloride ions. The deposition of Nb2O5 coatings by using the reactive sputtering technique on the 2198-T851 alloy surface appears as a powerful tool to improve the corrosion resistance of this material. Recently, groundbreaking research findings have demonstrated the positive effect of Nb2O5 coatings on corrosion protection of alloy 2198-T851. However, the corrosion products originated from the 2198-T851 aluminium alloy are poorly understood. The use of Raman spectroscopy and XPS techniques may help to shed some light on the corrosion products of 2198-T851 alloy. Results demonstrated the corrosion products are mainly composed by CuCl2 x H2O, CuCl, Cu2Cl(OH)3, Al(OH)3, and AlO(OH).

In this study, metal disks with different chemical composition (two Ag-based alloys and three Cu-based alloys) were buried in the soil of coastal archaeological sites for a period of 15 years. The aim was to naturally induce the growth of corrosion patinas to obtain a deeper insight into the role of alloying elements in the formation of the patinas and into the degradation mechanisms occurring in the very early stages of burial. To reach the aim, the morphological, compositional and structural features of the patinas grown over 15 years were extensively characterized by optical microscopy, field emission scanning electron microscopy coupled with energy dispersive spectrometry, X-ray diffraction and micro-Raman spectroscopy. Results showed that the Cu amount in Ag-based alloys strongly affected the final appearance, as well as the composition and structure of the patinas. Corrosion mechanisms typical of archaeological finds, such as the selective dissolution of Cu, Pb and Zn and internal oxidation of Sn, occurred in the Cu-based alloys, even if areas enriched in Zn and Pb compounds were also detected and attributed to an early stage of degradation. In addition, some unusual and rare compounds were detected in the patinas developed on the Cu-based disks.

An important method that coal-fired power plants use to realise low-cost zero discharge of desulfurisation wastewater (FGD wastewater) is to utilise wet slag removal systems. However, the high Cl− content of FGD wastewater in wet slag removal systems causes environmental damage. In this study, the corrosion behaviour of the inner guide wheel material, 20CrMnTi, was studied using dynamic weight loss and electrochemical methods. X-ray diffraction, scanning electron microscopy, and energy spectroscopy were used to analyse the organisational and phase changes on the surfaces and cross sections of the samples at different Cl− concentrations. The corrosion rate increased with the Cl− concentration up to 20 g/L, but it decreased slightly when the Cl− concentration exceeded 20 g/L. In all the cases, the corrosion rate exceeded 0.8 mm/a. The corrosion product film density initially increased and then decreased as the Cl− concentration increased. The corrosion products comprised mainly α-FeOOH, γ-FeOOH, β-FeOOH, Fe3O4, and γ-Fe2O3.

Due to its unique characteristics selective laser melting offers the possibility to manufacture highly complex and functional parts out of otherwise difficult processable materials. One example is β-type titanium alloys, which have very promising properties for various engineering applications. Two novel β-type alloys Ti–42Nb and Ti–20Nb–6Ta were compared with commercially pure titanium and Ti–6Al–4V ELI alloy in this study. All four lightweight materials were SLM-processed and the microstructure and corrosion resistance were investigated. While pure titanium and Ti–6Al–4V showed only the martensitic α′-phase, Ti–42Nb consists solely of the β-phase and Ti–20Nb–6Ta of the orthorhombic martensitic α″-phase. Potentiodynamic polarization showed a superior corrosion resistance for both β-type alloys, whereas Ti–42Nb performed slightly better than Ti–20Nb–6Ta. Released V and Al could be clearly observed for the Ti–6Al–4V ELI alloy by mass spectrometry due to corrosion processes, in contrast the release of Nb or Ta was hardly detected for the new alloys.

An effective strategy for achieving cost-effective and environmentally friendly desulfurization wastewater in coal-fired power plants involves the incorporation of desulfurization wastewater into the slag water system. The objective of this study was to analyze the corrosion behavior of Q235-A slag-picker shell material upon the introduction of FGD wastewater into the slag water system. The dynamic weight loss method, electrochemical testing method and microscopic phase characterization were employed to investigate the impact of varying chloride ion concentrations (ranging from 1000 mg/L to 30,000 mg/L) of flue gas desulfurization wastewater (FGD wastewater) on the corrosion of Q235-A slag-picker shell material. The test results indicate that as the concentration of chloride ions increases, the corrosion rate increases from 1.1487 mm/a to 1.5590 mm/a when the concentration is less than 10,000 mg/L. However, when the concentration exceeds 10,000 mg/L, the corrosion rate decreases from 1.559 mm/a to 1.0393 mm/a. The corrosion rate is above 1 mm/a at all concentrations. As the Cl− concentration, the quality of the corrosion product film initially increases and then decreases. The primary components of the corrosion product are α- FeOOH, γ-FeOOH, β-FeOOH, Fe3O4 and γ-Fe2O3.

Corrosion is known as a breakdown effect that causes the deterioration of substances in enriched petroleum/gas conditions. This reaction occurs in all materials, which is highlighted in alloys. In the present study, the morphological properties, as well as the corrosion resistance behavior of the AISI1045 steel substrate coated with 321 austenitic stainless steel metal particulate fillers, were investigated. The electro-explosive spraying technique was employed to achieve a homogenous coating on the substrate surface. According to the results, the grain size of the 321 austenitic stainless steel coating layer was shrunk and reduced to 1–3 μm after the coating procedure. The coated layer also showed a homogenous and uniform thickness with an average value of 137 μm. Also, the average adhesion strength of 49.21 MPa was obtained between the sprayed coating and the substrate. The analytical analysis found the presence of Fe-Cr and Fe-Ni phases in the coating layer. The hardness of the original metal wire is 186 HV, and the microhardness of the coating after spraying is 232 HV. After subjecting the specimen to the corrosion examination, a 0.1961 mm/a corrosion rate was obtained for up to 120 h. Moreover, the corrosion products of CaCO3, Fe3O4, and MgFe2O4 were determined by XRD analysis. Furthermore, the observed results were further confirmed by the data obtained from EPMA and EDS evaluations. Hence, this study implies the beneficial role of electro-explosive sprayed alloy 321 austenitic stainless steel in creating a protective layer against corrosion on 45 steel substrate in an enriched oil/water environment.

The stability of drinking water distribution systems and the management of disinfection by-products are critical to ensuring public health safety. In this paper, the interrelationships between corrosion products in the network, microbes, and drinking water quality are elucidated. This review also discusses the mechanisms through which corrosive by-products from the piping network influence the decay of disinfectants and the formation of harmful disinfection by-products. Factors such as copper corrosion by-products, CuO, Cu2O, and Cu2+ play a significant role in accelerating disinfectant decay and catalyzing the production of by-products. Biofilms on pipe walls react with residual chlorine, leading to the formation of disinfection by-products (DBPs) that also amplify health risks. Finally, this paper finally highlights the potential of peroxymonosulfate (PMS), an industrial oxidant, as a disinfectant that can reduce DBP formation, while acknowledging the risks associated with its corrosive nature. Overall, the impact of the corrosive by-products of pipe scale and microbial communities on water quality in pipe networks is discussed, and recommendations for removing DBPs are presented.

Hyperbaric oxygen-accelerated corrosion testing (HOACT) is a newly developed method to study in the labor the corrosion behavior of steel bars in concrete. This work aimed to intensively investigate the mechanical properties and microstructures of HOACT-generated corrosion products by means of nano-indentation tests, Raman micro-spectrometry, and scanning electron microscopy. The local elastic modulus and nanohardness varied over wide ranges of 6.8–75.2 GPa and 0.38–4.44 GPa, respectively. Goethite, lepidocrocite, maghemite, magnetite, and akageneite phases were identified in the corrosion products. Most regions of the rust layer were composed of a complex and heterogeneous mix of different phases, while some regions were composed of maghemite or akageneite only. The relationship between the micromechanical properties and typical microstructural features is finally discussed at the micro-scale level. It was found that the porosity of corrosion products can significantly influence their micromechanical properties.

Biodegradable metallic materials are increasingly gaining ground in medical applications. Zn-based alloys show a degradation rate between those recorded for Mg-based materials with the fastest degradation rate and Fe-based materials with the slowest degradation rate. From the perspective of medical complications, it is essential to understand the size and nature of the degradation products developed from biodegradable materials, as well as the stage at which these residues are eliminated from the body. This paper presents investigations conducted on the corrosion/degradation products of an experimental material (ZnMgY alloy in cast and homogenized state) after immersion tests in three physiological solutions (Dulbecco’s, Ringer’s and simulated body fluid (SBF)). Scanning electron microscopy (SEM) was used to highlight the macroscopic and microscopic aspects of corrosion products and their effects on the surface. An X-ray energy dispersive detector (EDS), X-ray diffraction (XRD) and Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR) provided general information about the compounds based on their non-metallic character. The pH of the electrolyte solution was recorded for 72 h during immersion. The pH variation of the solution confirmed the main reactions proposed for the corrosion of ZnMg. The agglomerations of corrosion products were on the micrometer scale, mainly oxides, hydroxides and carbonates or phosphates. The corrosion effects on the surface were homogeneously spread, with a tendency to connect and form cracks or larger corrosion zones, transforming the pitting corrosion pattern into a generalized one. It was noticed that the alloy’s microstructure strongly influences the corrosion characteristics.

Abstract A bronze kettle dating from the 1st to 2nd century was found in a riverbed of the Kupa river in Croatia. After excavation it spent another 50 years in a depot of a museum in atmospheric conditions prior to starting the conservation treatment and our studies. A study on the surface layers development was performed to determine the whereabouts of the object through its history. This study is a demonstration of how such analysis can be used to reconstruct what the object went through during its life span. Samples taken from the kettle were observed by optical and scanning electron microscopy (SEM), and analysed by X-ray fluorescence (XRF), X-ray energy dispersive spectroscopy (EDS) and Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR). It was determined that the kettle is made of low-tin bronze, with low amounts of iron, aluminium, calcium and nickel. While being in the riverbed malachite formed on the kettle. After longer exposure to the river Si-oxides and CaCO3 formed on the surface of the kettle, over malachite. It was shown that the kettle probably had a ferrous alloy handle which degraded and disappeared in time. After excavation, the kettle came again in an oxygen-enriched atmosphere and formed new surface layers over the malachite layer. As the museum the kettle has been kept in since excavation is set in a highly industrial area sulphur compounds have been formed on the surface.

To study the influence of gathering pipeline and equipment corrosion products on crude oil dehydration, the simulated iron corrosion products including FeS, FeCO3 and their subsequent oxidation products Fe(OH)3 were prepared by coprecipitation method, and their effects on the stability of simulated emulsion were studied. On this basis, the dehydration effect of ultrasonic-assisted demulsification technology was analyzed. The results show that the Zeta potential (the absolute value is about 30 mV) of FeS and Fe(OH)3 is so high as to greatly promote the stability of water/crude oil emulsion, while FeCO3 may lead to the difficulty in dehydration of crude oil at high temperature. Under appropriate conditions, the dehydration rate could be significantly improved by ultrasonic and demulsifier. The influence of corrosion products on emulsion stability was verified by the experiment, and it is suggested to strengthen the anticorrosion of gathering pipeline and equipment, so as to effectively improve the processing effect of crude oil.

Flow assisted corrosion (FAC) is a problem of pipeline systems that handle high flow rates and strong direction changes. In the present investigation, FAC was tested on carbon steel exposed to the NACE 1D-196 environment by means an experimental pipe loop. As the exposure time increased, corrosion products formed a mixture of oxides, sulfides, and an apparent sulfate (rhombohedral mikasaite Fe _2 (SO _4 ) _3 ), which was found in greater proportion and appeared to have a significant effect on decreasing corrosion rate. Transmission electron microscopy and x ray diffraction patterns seemed to confirm the presence of a sulfate and some oxides as the major chemical species contained in the corrosion products.

Zn–alloys are considered to be promising biodegradable materials due to suitable degradation rates. In this paper, novel Zn–Cu–Li alloys with layered CuZn4 structure were achieved. The corrosion properties of newly developed biodegradable Zn–Cu–Li alloys in simulated body fluid was studied. Results indicated that the cold-rolled alloys presented a relatively uniform corrosion mode, although early corrosion occurred preferentially at phase boundaries. Galvanic corrosion and corrosion product films jointly determined the later corrosion process. Cu improved the corrosion potential and film properties in its solid solution state, induced galvanic corrosion, and provided a physical barrier to corrosion by forming CuZn4 phase. Rolling accelerated the initial corrosion rate by enhancing the matrix electrochemical activity, while it contributed to uniform corrosion by improving the CuZn4 phase shape. Finally, cold-rolled Zn–4Cu–0.02Li possessed the best corrosion resistance and mechanical properties combination among the prepared alloys, with a yield strength of 256 MPa, an ultimate strength of 342 MPa, a fracture elongation of 39.8 %, and a corrosion rate of nearly 55 μm/year.

This work is focused on the characterization of metallic finds that are part of an ancient war biga from the Tomba della Biga, using different approaches for the diagnostics and also the conservation of this important cultural heritage. The materials analyzed were brought to light in the necropolis of Canal Bianco (Adria, Italy). The samples were analyzed using Optical Reflected Light Microscopy (ORLM), Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM) and micro-Raman Spectroscopy (µ-RS). The results highlighted the occurrence of two different alloys (Fe and Cu-Sn-bronze) showing important structural and textural variations. These results, along with µ-RS, gave details on the surface and subsurface morphology, as well as the microstructures and the chemical and mineralogical composition of the finds. In particular, µ-RS highlighted the presence of magnetite and goethite as the main mineralogical phases for Fe-samples and malachite, azurite and Cu-oxide for bronze samples. In addition, an attempt was made to trace the manufacturing process, the purity of the alloys and the degree of slagging. Results of analytical studies show corrosion products of the samples which could be evidence of metallurgical aspects. The good state of conservation due to favorable conditions in the burial environment preserved the metal finds from intense corrosion, supporting the hypothesis that the samples reached equilibrium with soil during their life in the burial environment. This proposed methodology based on the microstructure, chemistry and mineral microanalysis allows the diagnostic and evaluation of the state of conservation of metallic finds.

The preliminary exposure of Mg alloys to corrosion solutions can cause their embrittlement. The phenomenon is referred to as pre-exposure stress corrosion cracking (PESCC). It has been reported that relatively long storage in air after pre-exposure to the corrosion solution is capable of eliminating PESCC. This effect was attributed to the egress of diffusible hydrogen that accumulated in the metal during pre-exposure. However, recent findings challenged this viewpoint and suggested that the corrosion solution retained within the side surface layer of corrosion products could be responsible for PESCC. The present study is aimed at the clarification of the role of hydrogen and the corrosion solution sealed within the corrosion products in the “healing” effect caused by post-exposure storage in air. Using the slow strain rate tensile (SSRT) testing in air and detailed fractographic analysis of the ZK60 specimens subjected to the liquid corrosion followed by storage in air, we found that PESCC was gradually reduced and finally suppressed with the increasing time and temperature of air storage. The complete elimination of PESCC accompanied by recovery of elongation to failure from 20% to 38% was achieved after 24 h of air storage at 150–200 °C. It is established that the characteristic PESCC zone on the fracture surface is composed of two regions, of which the first is always covered by the crust of corrosion products, whereas the second one is free of corrosion products and is characterised by quasi-brittle morphology. It is argued that the corrosion solution and hydrogen stored within the corrosion product layer are responsible for the formation of these two zones, respectively.

In this work, the corrosion behavior of 30CrMnSiNi2A in a simulated marine environment was studied. The electrochemical behavior was studied by changing the temperature and pH of the solution environment. Detailed information about the rust layer was obtained by scanning electron microscopy, energy-dispersive spectroscopy, and X-ray diffraction. The stress corrosion cracking (SCC) behavior of the steel in artificial seawater was studied through a slow strain rate tensile test (SSRT). The experimental results showed that the corrosion products were mainly composed of α-FeOOH, γ-FeOOH, and Fe3O4, while the content of Fe3O4 in the rust layer formed in the salt spray environment was much higher. The steel in the salt spray test showed a much higher corrosion rate than that observed when it underwent a full-immersion test. The decrease in the pH value mainly accelerated the cathodic reaction, and the temperature simultaneously promoted anodic dissolution and cathodic reductions. The decrease in the elongation during SCC test was minimal, while the index for the reduction-in-area showed a slight SCC susceptibility in the seawater environment, suggesting that anodic dissolution is the dominant mechanism of SCC degradation.

The article focused on the multi analytical characterization of unique copper model tools date back to the dynasty Xth, 1st intermediate period (c.2134-2050). The studied set consists of twenty-five objects that were excavated in the tomb of KHENNU AND APA-EM-SA-F (289) in the south of Memphis, Saqqara. Different microscopes were used to examine the morphology and stratigraphy of the corrosion product layers. Stereomicroscope was used to examine the corrosion phases on the surface objects. Metallographic microscopy was used to investigate the microstructure of the metal core as well as the morphology and stratigraphy of the corrosion product layers. Scanning electron microscope-energy dispersive X-ray analysis was used to identify the elemental composition of the objects. X-ray diffraction was used to analyze the corrosion phases formed on surface’s artifacts, while raman spectroscopy was carried out to identify the internal corrosion layers. The results revealed that that burial environment and long–term storage in an uncontrolled environment together caused a progressive stage of corrosion of the studied artifacts. The formed corrosion layers consists of the external layer, an under surface layer and internal corrosion products in the center of the cross-sectios. The surface and internal corrosion products were identified as Cuprite, Paratacamite, Nantokite, Atacamite, Malachite and Chalconatronite. Also, the results revealed that the metallic core consists of copper metal without any further alloying elements. Finally, the study presented suitable treatment and conservation strategies of these unique artifacts or such cases, and shows a safe fixing procedure using a sewing technique via transparent inert threads to display the set objects.

Failures of bushing caused by corrosive sulfur has gradually appeared in recent years. Apart from copper and sulfur, certain amount of aluminum was also found both in oil and paper after disassembling. The corrosion mechanism of the aluminum foil and its effect on oil-paper insulation were unknown. In this study, series of sulfur corrosion experiments were taken to investigate the sulfur corrosion of aluminum foil. The results showed the aluminum foil could certainly be corroded in oil containing corrosive sulfur (DBDS). Thermal products of insulting paper triggered the corrosion by removing the alumina film on the surface. Then, the contact corrosion occurred between aluminum and DBDS. In addition, the mechanisms of corrosion products generation both in oil and on paper were studied. The corrosion products in oil was DBDS-Al(3,4) and that on paper was RCOOAln. It caused the decrease of electrical properties of oil-paper. Particularly, the dielectric loss of oil and paper were dramatically enhanced.

Al-Li alloys with the lower density and acceptable mechanical properties relative to conventional aluminum alloys possess great application potential in the aerospace field. Their anticorrosion behaviors attract research and industrial interests due to the incorporation of lithium element. In this study, Al-Li alloy 2A97 was subjected to face-milling and grinding-polishing operations. The face-milled and ground-polished surfaces were characterized by electrochemical impedance spectroscopy and potentiodynamic polarization measurements. The observations, including the brighter corroded surface, the higher impedance, lower corrosion current density, and nobler corrosion potential, suggested the superior corrosion resistance of the face-milled surfaces. The superiority in the corrosion resistance was attributed to the surface work hardening induced by the milling process. According to the variation trend of current density, the anodic branches of the polarization curves of the specimens were divided into three phases: preferential dissolution, protection enhancement, and breakdown. The three phases were identified by assuming that the protective effectiveness provided by the film on the alloy surface was proportional to its equivalent thickness. The small potential window of the passivation region indicated that the anodic protection method was unsuitable to protect alloy 2A97 in chloride-containing media.

Steel corrosion is the main cause of reinforced concrete cracking. Conventionally, concrete is considered to crack when the circumferential tensile stress reaches the tensile strength of the concrete. However, few analyses have considered the fracture criteria of the internal cross-section of concrete. Based on the von Mises distribution of angle probabilities, this paper proposes a new probability distribution function for investigating the distribution law of corrosion products. The cracking process of experimental samples was numerically analyzed, and the results were consistent with those of the theoretical model. The effect of the dry–wet cycle ratio on the corrosion products was preliminarily investigated by microscopic observation of the reinforced concrete under different dry–wet cycle corrosion environments.

Alternating current (AC) corrosion behavior of carbon steel–copper couple in acidic red soil was studied by means of the electrochemical test, mass loss, X-ray diffraction (XRD) and scanning electron microscope (SEM) characterization. Mathematical models were established to expound the impacts of AC and galvanic effect on the corrosion mechanism. The results demonstrate that the corrosion rate of the galvanic couple is positively related to AC intensity. Galvanic effect and AC synergistically aggravate the corrosion of steel. The composition of α-FeOOH declines while γ-FeOOH is increased with AC interference. Based on the statistical model, the galvanic effect has a more significant influence on steel corrosion compared with AC.

There have been many studies on contaminant removal by fresh and aged nanoscale zero-valent iron (nZVI), but the effect of spatial distribution of nZVI on the corrosion behavior of the composite materials and its subsequent Cr(VI) removal remains unclear. In this study, four types of D201-nZVI composites with different nZVI distributions (named D1, D2, D3, and D4) were fabricated and pre-corroded in varying coexisting solutions. Their effectiveness in the removal of Cr(VI) were systematically investigated. The results showed acidic or alkaline conditions, and all coexisting ions studied except for H2PO4− and SiO32− enhanced the corrosion of nZVI. Additionally, the Cr(VI) removal efficiency was observed to decrease with increasing nZVI distribution uniformity. The corrosion products derived from nZVI, including magnetite, hematite, lepidocrcite, and goethite, were identified by XRD. The XPS results suggested that the Cr(VI) and Cr(III) species coexisted and the Cr(III) species gradually increased on the surface of the pre-corroded D201-nZVI with increasing iron distribution uniformity, proving Cr(VI) removal via a comprehensive process including adsorption/coprecipitation and reduction. The results will help to guide the selection for nZVI nanocomposites aged under different conditions for environmental decontamination.

Corrosion behaviour of Sn (0.0, 0.5, 1.0, 2.0 and 3.0 wt.%)-doped Zn 1.6 wt.% Al 1.6 wt.% Mg alloys exposed to salt spray testing was investigated. Intergranular corrosion was observed for all alloys in both as-cast and annealed states. However, due to microstructure spheroidisation in the annealed samples, potential intergranular corrosion paths are significantly reduced. Samples with 0.5 wt.% of Sn showed the best corrosion properties. The main corrosion products identified by XRD analysis for all samples were simonkolleite and hydrozincite. Occasionally, ZnO and AlO were identified in limited amounts.

Food contamination due to metal corrosion and the consequent leakage of metals into foods is a problem. Understanding the mechanism(s) of metal corrosion in food media is vital to evaluating, mitigating, and predicting contamination levels. Fruit juices have been employed as model corrosive media to study the corrosion behaviour of metallic material in food media. Carbon steel corrosion in fresh juices of tomato, orange, pineapple, and lemon, as well as dilute hydrochloric acid solutions at varied pH, was studied using scanning electron microscopy, gravimetric and spectrophotometric techniques, and comparisons made between the corrosivity of these juices and mineral acids of comparable pH. The corrosion of carbon steel in fruit juices and HCl solutions manifests as a combination of uniform and pitting corrosion. Gravimetric data acquired after one hour of immersion at ambient temperature (22 °C) indicated corrosion rates of 0.86 mm yr−1 in tomato juice (pH ≈ 4.24), 1.81 mm yr−1 in pineapple juice (pH ≈ 3.94), 1.52 mm yr−1 in orange juice (pH ≈ 3.58), and 2.89 mm yr−1 in lemon juice (pH ≈ 2.22), compared to 2.19 mm yr−1 in 10−2 M HCl (pH ≈ 2.04), 0.38 mm yr−1 in 10−3 M HCl (pH ≈ 2.95), 0.17 mm yr−1 in 10−4 M HCl (pH ≈ 3.95), and 0.04 mm yr−1 in 10−5 M HCl (pH ≈ 4.98). The correlation of gravimetrically acquired corrosion data with post-exposure spectrophotometric analysis of fruit juices enabled de-convolution of iron contamination rates from carbon steel corrosion rates in fruit juices. Elemental iron contamination after 50 h of exposure to steel samples was much less than the values predicted from corrosion data (≈40%, 4.02%, 8.37%, and 9.55% for tomato, pineapple, orange, and lemon juices, respectively, relative to expected values from corrosion (weight loss) data). Tomato juice (pH ≈ 4.24) was the least corrosive to carbon steel compared to orange juice (pH ≈ 3.58) and pineapple juice (pH ≈ 3.94). The results confirm that though the fruit juices are acidic, they are generally much less corrosive to carbon steel compared to hydrochloric acid solutions of comparable pH. Differences in the corrosion behaviour of carbon steel in the juices and in the different mineral acid solutions are attributed to differences in the compositions and pH of the test media, the nature of the corrosion products formed, and their dissolution kinetics in the respective media. The observation of corrosion products (iron oxide/hydroxide) in some of the fruit juices (tomato, pineapple, and lemon juices) in the form of apparently hollow microspheres indicates the feasibility of using fruit juices and related wastes as “green solutions” for the room-temperature and hydrothermal synthesis of metal oxide/hydroxide particles.

In creating a large-scale atomic-hydrogen power industry, the resolution of technological issues associated with high temperatures in reactor plants (900°C) and large hydrogen concentrations intended as long-term resources takes on particular importance. The paper considers technological aspects of removing impurities from high-temperature sodium used as a coolant in the high-temperature fast reactor (BN-HT) 600MW (th.) intended for the production of hydrogen as well as other innovative applications. The authors examine the behavior of impurities in the BN-HT circuits associated with the mass transfer intensification at high temperatures (Arrhenius law) in different operating modes. Special attention is given to sodium purification from hydrogen, tritium and corrosion products in the BN-HT. Sodium purification from hydrogen and tritium by their evacuation through vanadium or niobium membranes will make it possible to develop compact highly-efficient sodium purification systems. It has been shown that sodium purification from tritium to concentrations providing the maximum permissible concentration of the produced hydrogen (3.6Bq/l according to NRB-99/2009) specifies more stringent requirements to the hydrogen removal system, i.e., the permeability index of the secondary tritium removal system should exceed 140kg/s. Provided that a BN-HN-type reactor meets these conditions, the bulk of tritium (98%) will be accumulated in the compact sodium purification system of the secondary circuit, 0.6% (∼ 4·104Bq/s), will be released into the environment and 1.3% will enter the product (hydrogen). The intensity of corrosion products (CPs) coming into sodium is determined by the corrosion rate of structural materials: at a high temperature level, a significant amount of corrosion products flows into sodium. The performed calculations showed that, for the primary BN-HT circuit, the amount of corrosion products formed at the oxygen concentration in sodium of 1mln–1 exceeds 900kg/yr with fuel element claddings made of EP-912-VD steel and 464kg/yr with molybdenum alloy claddings. For the secondary circuit, the amount of corrosion products totals 263kg/yr for each loop. Taking into account the high-temperature experiments which demonstrated high efficiency of retaining corrosion product suspensions by the strainers located in the low-temperature area, it is proposed to cool sodium to the required temperature alongside the corrosion products retention on the mass transfer surfaces, including strainers. It is shown that, by using 30% of the power required to produce hydrogen with 50% efficiency, the BN-HT is capable of producing about 0.6·106m3 of hydrogen per 24 hours which is sufficient for modern large-scale enterprises processing medium-grade crude oil or the implementation of other technologies.

Macrocell corrosion test and accelerated alternating wet–dry experiment combined with marine field test were employed to study the corrosion behavior of HRB400 carbon steel, 1.5Cr steel, and 5Cr steel in a simulated concrete pore solution and mortar. The macrocell current significantly decreases in samples added with Cr compared with that in HRB400 steel. The corrosion rate is decreased by Cr but increased by Cl−; as a consequence, the corrosion rates of 1.5Cr and 5Cr steel are lower than that of HRB400 steel. However, the corrosion products differ slightly in terms of the contents of α-FeOOH (goethite), γ-FeOOH (lepidocrocite), γ-Fe2O3, and Fe3O4 (maghemite or magnetite). The addition of Cr increases the content of the protective α-FeOOH and reduces the content of γ-FeOOH. Both ordinary and high-performance epoxy coatings remain intact after 1 year of marine field test. Among the bare steel rebars, HRB400 steel shows extensive localized corrosion on the surface, whereas 1.5Cr steel exhibits less severe corrosion. The scarcely visible corroded areas in 5Cr steel indicate that this rebar is in the passive state, consistent with results of the indoor accelerated test. Hence, the durability of concrete structures can be prolonged with the utilization of corrosion-resistant low-alloy rebars.

The corrosion product formation and the stress corrosion cracking of brass in different ammonia environments have been observed and characterized. Optical and scanning electron microscopy techniques were used to analyze the corrosion phenomena on the systems. The testing methodology was designed to investigate the variables affecting stress corrosion cracking behaviour, these parameters were: stamp geometry, immersion time, Cl- concentration, pH, copper ions concentration, exposure to vapour/ liquid. From this investigation, stress corrosion cracking of brass was shown to occur most severely in ammonia vapour. The increase of the amount of ammonia and copper ions in the form of copper sulphate was found to increase the corrosion of the brass samples.

Geopolymer has been selected as a hydraulic mineral binder for the immobilization of MgZr fuel cladding coming from the dismantling of French Uranium Natural Graphite Gas reactor dedicated to a geological disposal. In this context, the corrosion processes and the nature of the corrosion products formed on MgZr alloy in a geopolymer matrix with and without the corrosion inhibitor NaF have been determined using a multiscale approach combining in situ Grazing Incidence hard X-ray Diffraction, Raman microspectroscopy, Scanning and Transmission Electron Microscopies coupled to Energy Dispersive X-ray Spectroscopy. The composition, the morphology, and the porous texture of the corrosion products were characterized, and the effect of the corrosion inhibitor NaF was evidenced. The results highlighted the formation of Mg(OH)2−xFx. In addition, in presence of NaF, NaMgF3 forms leading to a decrease of the thickness and the porosity of the corrosion products layer. Moreover, a precipitation of magnesium silicates within the porosity of the geopolymer was evidenced. Finally, we propose a detailed set of interconnected processes occurring during the MgZr corrosion in the geopolymer.

The electrochemical behaviors of the Ni-base superalloy CMSX-4 were carried out in 3.5 wt.% NaCl solution using electrochemical technique. The electrochemical corrosion process was divided into four stages, and reactions at the alloy surface and corrosion morphology at each stage were analyzed. The passivity mechanism at the stable passivation stage and the occurrence of pitting corrosion at the transpassivation state were discussed especially. The corrosion parameters including Ecorr, Epass, ipass and Epit were compared at different temperatures to reveal the relationship between the temperature and the corrosion resistance properties. The corrosion products were investigated by the aid of X-Ray Diffraction (XRD) and Energy Dispersive Spectroscopy (EDS). By designing different preoxidation procedures, the corrosion mechanism of oxide scales was analyzed for the preoxidized samples.

Restoration treatment, specimen preparation or mass loss measurements on coupons made of lead require a reliable process of dissolution of corrosion products. In this study, several types of model corrosion products with compositions representative of those found on real objects were prepared and characterized. Ten solutions were then thoroughly tested in interval cleaning experiments, regarding the efficiency of removal of the corrosion products, corrosivity towards bare lead, and remnants left on the surface. The solution recommended in the current version of the ISO 8470 standard was found to be improper for the cleaning of both historical artefacts and corrosion coupons due to its inability to remove sulfide corrosion products and the risk of surface contamination and staining. A solution of 20% hydrochloric acid is the best choice for the preparation of lead coupons before exposure or for evaluation of mass loss of exposed samples because its somewhat higher corrosivity towards metallic lead is tolerable for these applications. Rochelle salt solution was found to be optimal for the cleaning of historical artefacts free of sulfide corrosion products due to the lowest corrosivity. None of these alternative solutions leave remnants on the surface and they are efficient at laboratory temperature.

The aim of this paper was to investigate the corrosion resistance of Mg66Zn30Ca4 and Mg68Zn28Ca4 metallic glasses and evaluate the ability of this amorphous alloy use for medical applications as biodegradable medical implants. Taking into account the amount of Mg, Zn, Ca elements dissolved in multielectrolyte physiological fluid (MPF) from Mg66+xZn30-xCa4 (x=0.2) alloys the daily dose of evolved ions from alloys components was determined. Additional goal of the paper was determination of corrosion rate (Vcorr) and amount of hydrogen evolved from amorphous magnesium alloys in simulated environment of human body fluids during 24h immersion and during electrochemical tests. Corrosion studies were done in the multielectrolyte physiological fluid (MPF) at 37°C. The amount of hydrogen evolved [ml/cm2] and corrosion rate Vcorr [mm/year] of amorphous Mg66Zn30Ca4 and Mg68Zn28Ca4 alloys were compared. The work also presents characterization of Mg-based bulk metallic glasses structure in the form of 2 mm thickness plates. Samples structure was analyzed by means of X-ray diffraction. Fracture and surface morphology of magnesium alloy samples were identified using scanning electron microscopy.

Coolant purification systems constitute integral element of any reactor facility. A number of new tasks emerge in the current day reactor engineering, one of which is the task to enhance productivity and capacity of such systems. Retrospective analysis of coolant purification systems in nuclear reactors from BR-5 to BN-1200, such as cold traps and sorbents for purification from cesium ensuring successful operation of nuclear power installations equipped with sodium-cooled fast neutron reactors and hot traps representing promising concept to be used for sodium purification from oxygen on NPPs demonstrated that there exist capabilities for enhancing characteristics of such systems. Main directions of efforts for improving characteristics of purification systems for future NPPs equipped with sodium-cooled reactors were suggested based on the results of the implemented studies. Cold trap must be included as the mandatory element of the purification system of the reactor primary cooling loop both in normal and in standby operational modes. Optimal solutions on the purification from radioactive impurities and non-radioactive corrosion products as applied to fast sodium-cooled reactors require implementation of purposeful R&D efforts.

Rolled Zn-0.8Li-0.2Ag(wt%) alloy as candidates for biodegradable materials. The biodegradable behavior of Zn-0.8Li-0.2Ag alloy in different solutions (Ringer’s, DMEM, SBF and DMEMp) was investigated. The cytotoxicity of Zn-0.8Li-0.2Ag alloy and its antibacterial properties against staphylococcus aureus, enterobacter faecalis and candida albicans were evaluated. The results showed that Zn-0.8Li-0.2Ag alloy consists of zinc matrix and a LiZn _4 secondary phase. The presence of Cl ^− causes locally corroded of Zn-0.8Li-0.2Ag alloy in Ringer’s solution, and its corrosion resistance is lower than that of the alloy which is uniformly corroded in other solutions containing CO _3 ^2− and PO _4 ^3− . Zn-0.8Li-0.2Ag alloy is non-toxic and exhibits better antibacterial properties than the experimental reference group without silver.