Corrosion resistance of tungsten and nickel in molten eutectic mixture LiF-NaF

Abstract

Corrosion resistance of tungsten and nickel in molten eutectic LiF-NaF was investigated by measurement of polarization resistance and chronopotentiometry. Results obtained by both methods were compared by digital simulation of diffusion of corrosion products. All measurements were carried out at the temperature of 680 °C in two types of atmospheres; in inert argon and oxidation air atmosphere. It was found that presence of air (oxygen) significantly decreases corrosion resistance of used metals. From tested materials, tungsten was more corrosion resistant material than nickel in both types of atmospheres. Obtained results were also compared with those measured in the molten eutectic LiF-NaF-KF earlier.