Microstructure, corrosion resistance and oxidation behavior of Cr-coatings on Zircaloy-4 prepared by vacuum arc plasma deposition

Cr-coated Zircaloy-4 samples are prepared by vacuum arc plasma deposition and their microstructure, corrosion resistance and oxidation behavior are investigated. The as-received coating is dense with no pores or defects observed. The corrosion rate of Cr coating is significantly lower than Zircaloy-4 under the condition simulating the coolant of both PWRs and BWRs. Cr coating can prevent zirconium from harsh and fatal oxidation in air. Bubbles...