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Ferritic high temperature alloys are widely used as boiler tube and heat exchanger materials in coal, biomass and co-fired power plants. All technologies have in common that the applied materials are exposed to different temperatures, process pressures and reactive atmospheres that lead to a change of the material properties and a further degradation of the material. Material changes caused by aging in highly corrosive and toxic gases such as SO2 are mainly studied ex situ after the reaction is finished. The solid material is deposited in the atmosphere for a certain period of time, and material changes are then examined by various microscopic techniques such as optical microscopy (OM), electron microprobe analysis (EMPA), scanning electron microscopy (SEM and TEM) and X-ray diffraction (XRD). Nevertheless, extensive efforts were made to study material changes of high temperature alloys under oxidizing and reducing atmospheres by environmental scanning electron microscopy or in situ TEM techniques However, the possibilities of microscopic in situ techniques are very limited for the use of highly corrosive and toxic gases such as SO2. Since Sulfur induced corrosion at temperatures relevant for coal and biomass fired power plants, which is causing breakaway oxidation and sulfide precipitation at grain boundaries, is still of scientific interest, the current work focuses on the effect of SO2 in an initial stage of corrosion of ferritic alloys. For the analysis of early stages of combined oxidation and sulphidation processes of Fe-Cr model alloys the usage of a light furnace to conduct a rapid reactive annealing experiment is feasible. Previous studies presented distinct results of the influence of chromium on early high temperature corrosion by SO2 by this technique and subsequent classical metallographic analyses. However, it is still not possible to trace the corrosion mechanism in real time by conducting single aging experiments. The current work introduces two different approaches to study the initial stages of high temperature oxidation processes by applying above state of the art X-ray diffraction and spectroscopy methods. One part focuses on the real time observation of the formation of corrosion products such as oxides and sulfides by energy dispersive X-ray diffraction (EDXRD). The potential of this technique to study crystallization and growth processes of thin films in a reactive environment in real time was previously shown for different compound semiconductors. This approach was now applied to follow oxidation and sulphidation processes of ferritic model alloys in SO2 and SO2/H2O environments. The diffraction signals of the X-rays were detected during the corrosion process and the peak area and positions were analyzed as a function of time. This procedure enables monitoring external oxide growth and material loss in real time in an early stage of corrosion.
The other part of the current work presents the possibilities of X-ray absorption near edge structure spectroscopy (XANES) to characterize oxide scales and their growth mechanisms. Precise phase identification and quantification of corrosion products in a multi-phase oxide/sulfide scale is a pre-requisite to understand diffusion paths of metal ions and gas components. It is a challenging task to distinguish structurally similar reaction products such as Fe3O4 and FeCr2O4 especially in thin films with texture effects by diffraction. To illustrate for example Cr-out diffusion of an alloy throughout an inner and external oxide scale the differentiation of Fe3O4 and FeCr2O4 is indispensable. XANES uses the photoionization effect at the metal absorption edge in an aging product and accesses by this structural and chemical information. The current work uses XANES at the Fe-K and Cr-K absorption edge to identify various aging products grown as thin layers on alloys after short time aging experiments. A reaction chamber for combining high temperature oxidation experiments with surface sensitive X-ray absorption near edge structure spectroscopy will be introduced and first results of XANES on scales at high temperatures will be presented.
In this work, the focus was set on the corrosion process of condensate as drops on the surface of carbon steels (X52, X70), martensitic steel UNS S41500, and superaustenite UNS N08031 in CO2 atmosphere with impurities at 278 K (to simulate the transportation condition in a buried pipeline). Exposure tests were performed at both normal pressure and high pressure where CO2 is supercritical or in dense phase. The drop, 1 ‑ 10 μL in volume, was prepared by dropping CO2 saturated ultra-pure water onto the surface of steel coupons in a one-liter-autoclave. The CO2 gas stream, simulating the oxyfuel flue gas with varying concentration of impurities (SO2 and O2 ), was then pumped into the autoclave to observe the condensation and corrosion impacts of impurities. Comparable exposure tests were carried out with the same gas mixture and the same volume of water as vapor to observe the drop formation and the corrosion process that follows. The wettability and stability of drops on the surface of steel coupons in CO2 supercritical/dense phase environment was evaluated additionally by contact angle measurement.
Carbon Capture and Storage (CCS) is well acknowledged to mitigate climate change. Therefore, pipe Steels suitable for CCS technology require resistance against the corrosive environment of a potential CCS-site, e.g. heat, pressure, salinity of the aquifer, CO2-partial pressure. Samples of different mild and high alloyed stainless injection-pipe Steels partially heat treated: 42CrMo4, X20Cr13, X46Cr13, X35CrMo4 as well as X5CrNiCuNb16-4 were kept at T=60 °C and ambient pressure as well as p=100 bar for 700 h - 8000 h in a CO2-saturated synthetic aquifer environment similar to possible geological on-shore CCS-sites in the northern German Basin. Main corrosion products analysed on pits are FeCO3 and FeOOH. The carbon content does not show significant influence on the pitting behaviour. Generally, higher chromium Content results in better corrosion resistance. Although X35CrMo17-1 and X5CrNiCuNb16-4 show low surface corrosion rates, their resistance against local corrosion in CCS environment is not significantly better compared to the much less costly Steels X20Cr13 and X46Cr13.
In context of CLUSTER project, impacts of impurities (SO2, NO2, O2, CO, H2S, H2, N2, Ar and H2O) in CO2 streams captured from different sources in a regional cluster on transport, injection and storage were investigated. Corrosion studies of oxidizing, reductive or mixed atmospheres towards transport pipeline steel X70 were carried out applying high pressure (10 MPa) at low temperatures (278 K or 313 K).
We investigated the effect of water vapor in the initial stages of SO2 corrosion of an Fe-9Cr-0.5Mn model alloy at 650 °C. Two separate experiments were run, one with 99.5%-Ar + 0.5%-SO2 and one with 69.5%-Ar + 0.5%-SO2 with 30%-H2O atmosphere. During the experiment the scale growth was observed in-situ, using energy dispersive X-ray diffraction (EDXRD). Our results confirm an increased speed of oxygen transport into the material, with the addition of water, while the transport of sulfur appears to be less affected.
Recent studies have shown that even at a very low concentration of impurities (less than 100 ppmv of SO2, NO2, O2 and H2O) the droplet formation and condensation of sulfuric and nitric acids in dense phase CO2 are possible and observable. To reveal the mechanism of droplet corrosion in dense phase CO2 at high pressure and low temperature, further studies on factors that affect wettability and resulting corrosion behaviors of transport pipeline steels are needed. In this study, effects of surface morphology were investigated by varying surface roughness of carbon steel coupons exposed to CO2 stream containing impurities to measure the wettability by contact angle and to observe the condensation as well as possible droplet corrosion that followed. Other considered factors were: pH of the droplet, temperature, droplet volume, and exposure time.
Carbon Capture and Storage (CCS) is identified as an excellent technology to reach the target of CO2 reduction. However, the safety issue and cost-effectiveness hinder the future of CCS. For the reliability and safety issues of injection wells, the corrosion resistance of the materials used needs to be determined.
In this study, representative low-cost materials including carbon steel 1.8977 and low alloyed steel 1.7225 were investigated in simulated pore water at 333 K and under CO2 saturation condition to represent the worst-case scenario: CO2 diffusion and aquifer fluid penetration. These simulated pore waters were made from relevant cement powder to mimic the realistic casing-cement interface. Electrochemical studies were carried out using the pore water made of cement powder dissolved in water in comparison with those dissolved in synthetic aquifer fluid, to reveal the effect of cement as well as formation water on the steel performance. Two commercially available types of cement were investigated: Dyckerhoff Variodur® and Wollastonite. Variodur® is a cement containing high performance binder with ultra-fine blast furnace slag which can be used to produce high acid resistance concrete. On the other hand, Wollastonite is an emerging natural material mainly made of CaSiO3 which can be hardened by converting to CaCO3 during CO2 injection.
The results showed the pH-reducing effect of CO2 on the simulated pore water/aquifer (from more than 10 to less than 5) leading to the active corrosion process that happened on both 1.8977 and 1.7225. Electrochemical characterization showed negative free corrosion potential and polarisation curves without passive behaviors. The tested coupons suffered from pitting corrosion, which was confirmed by surface analysis. Interestingly, basing on the pit depth measurements from the tested coupons and the hardness of cement powder, it is suggested that Variodur® performed better than Wollastonite in both aspects. The electrochemical data was compared to that resulted from exposure tests to give a recommendation on material selection for bore-hole construction.
Sulfur and water have a fundamental impact on the corrosion rate and potential failure of materials. It is therefore necessary to understand the mechanisms, rates, and potential means of transport, as well as the reactions of these elements with an alloy. This work investigates the effect of water vapor in the initial stages of SO2 corrosion of an ferritic model alloy containing 9 wt% Cr and 0.5 wt% Mn.
The exposure experiments were studied at 650°C in situ under laboratory conditions using energy-dispersive x-ray diffraction analysis. Two separate experiments were run, one with a 99.5% Ar + 0.5% SO2 atmosphere and one with a 69.5% Ar + 0.5% SO2 + 30% H2O atmosphere. With a wet atmosphere, the alloy formed a scale with decreasing oxygen content towards the scale–alloy interface. Sulfides were identified above and below a (Fe, Cr)3O4 layer in the inner corrosion zone. In contrast to this, the overall scale growth was slower in a dry SO2 atmosphere.
Chromia forming high alloyed ferritic-austenitic steels are being used as boiler tube materials in biomass and coal-biomass co-fired power plants. Despite thermodynamic and kinetic boundary conditions, microstructural features such as grain orientation, grain sizes or surface deformation contribute to the oxidation resistance and formation of protective chromium-rich oxide layers. This study elucidates the impact of microstructure such as the grain size and number of carbide precipitates on high temperature oxidation at 650°C in 0.5% SO2 atmosphere. Cold-rolled Fe-16Cr-0.2C material was heat-treated to obtain two additional microstructures. After exposure to hot and reactive gases for 10 h < t < 1000 h layer thicknesses and microstructure of oxide scales are observed by scanning electron microscopy and Energy-dispersive X-ray spectroscopy. The two heat treated alloys showed reasonable oxidation resistance after 1000 h of exposure. The oxidation rate was substantially higher for the alloy with a duplex matrix after heat treatment compared to the fine-grained material.
During capture and storage technology (CCS) as well as in geothermal energy production Steels need to withstand the corrosive environment such as: heat, pressure, salinity of the aquifer and CO2-partial pressure. 1.4542 shows unusual corrosion phenomena, but is still sufficiently resistant in corrosive environments. To better understand its behaviour differently heat treated coupons of 1.4542 and for comparison X20Cr13 and X46Cr13 were kept in the artificial brine of the Northern German Basin at T=60 °C. Ambient pressure as well as p=100 bar for 700 h - 8000 h in water saturated supercritical CO2 and CO2-saturated synthetic aquifer Environment was applied. Fatigue tests were performed via push-pull tests with a series of 30 specimens from 150 MPa to 500 MPa (sinusoidal dynamic test loads, R=-1; resonant frequency ~ 30 Hz). FeCO3 and FeOOH are corrosion products also after dynamic corrosion tests. Martensitic microstructure offers good corrosion resistance in geothermal environment. The S-N-curve showing no typical fatigue strength and very steep slopes of possible fatigue strength for finite life. Possible influencing artefacts, such as Al-inclusions could not be correlated to early rupture despite specimens containing inclusions at the fracture surface and cross section reached lower number of cycles. Applied potential proofed to enhance fatigue life tremendously.
Corrosion fatigue specimen with different surfaces (technical surfaces after machining and polished surfaces) of high alloyed martensitic stainless steel X46Cr13 (1.4043) and duplex stai nless steel X2CrNiMoN22 3 2 (1.4462) were compared at load amplitudes from 175 MPa to 325 MPa in the geothermal brine of the N orthern German Basin at 98 °C. Surface corrosion layers and pits reveal carbonate corrosion products on the surface such as FeCO 3 and FeOOH as the main precipitation phases with no dependence on the original surface roughness . At high stress amplitudes above 275 MPa technical surfaces (P50% at σa 300 MPa=5 × 10 5 ) resulted in more cycles to failure than polished (P50% at σa 300 MPa=1.5 × 10 5 ). The greater slope coefficient for technical surfaces k = 19.006 compared to polished surfaces k =8.78 demonstrate s earlier failure at given stress amplitude σa .
Geothermal energy is one of the most promising energy resources to replace fossil fuel. To extract this energy, hot fluids of various salts and gases are pumped up from a geothermal well having a certain depth and location. Geothermal wells in volcanic regions often contain highly corrosive CO2 and H2S gases that can be corrosive to the geothermal power-plants, which are commonly constructed of different steels, such as carbon steel. This research focuses on the corrosion behaviour of carbon steel exposed to an artificial geothermal fluid containing CO2 gas, using an artificial acidic-saline geothermal brine as found in Sibayak, Indonesia. This medium has a pH of 4 and a chloride content of 1,500 mg/L. Exposure tests were conducted for seven days at 70 °C and 150 °C to simulate the operating temperatures for low and medium enthalpy geothermal sources. Surface morphology and cross-section of the specimens from the above experiments were analysed using scanning electron microscope (SEM) and energy dispersive X-ray (EDX). Electrochemical tests via open circuit potential (OCP) and electrochemical impedance spectroscopy (EIS) were performed to understand the corrosion processes of carbon steel in CO2-containing solution both at 70 °C and 150 °C. Localized corrosion was observed to a greater extent at 70 °C due to the less protectiveness of corrosion product layer compared to that at 150 °C, where FeCO3 has a high corrosion resistance. However, a longer exposure test for 28 days revealed the occurrence of localized corrosion with deeper pits compared to the seven-day exposed carbon steel. In addition, corrosion product transformation was observed after 28 days, indicating that more Ca2+ cations incorporate into the FeCO3 structure.
During carbon sequestration the CO2-induced corrosion of injection pipe steels is a relevant safety issue when emission gasses are compressed into deep geological layers. The reliability of the high alloyed steel X35CrMo17 suitable as injection pipe for the geological onshore CCS-site (Carbon Capture and Storage) in the Northern German Basin, is demonstrated in laboratory experiments in equivalent corrosive environment (T = 60 °CC, p = 1–100 bar, aquifer water, CO2-flow rate of 9 L/h, 700–8000 h exposure time). Corrosion kinetics and microstructure were characterized and compared to other potential injection pipe steels (42CrMo4, X46Cr13, X20Cr13 and X5CrNiCuNb16-4).
Electrochemical deposition of polyaniline on carbon steel for corrosion study in geothermal solution
(2019)
Polyaniline has been widely developed for many applications, e.g. sensor, supercapacitor components, electrochromic devices, and anticorrosion pigments. Although the addition of polyaniline pigment in organic coatings has been an alternative for corrosion protection in industrial applications, the protection mechanism is still not fully understood. Herein in this study, as a part of the development of polyaniline/silicon dioxide coating for geothermal application, polyaniline has been deposited electrochemically on carbon steel surface in oxalic acid medium and tested in geothermal solution to understand the contribution of polyaniline to the corrosion protection of a polyaniline-based composite in the geothermal system. To observe the surface/interface reaction between the electrolyte and electrode surface during the electrochemical polymerization, electrochemical impedance spectroscopy (EIS) was applied after each cycle. For corrosion study in the geothermal application, an artificial geothermal solution was used with the composition of 1,500 mg/l Cl⁻, 20 mg/l SO₄²⁻, 15 mg/l HCO₃⁻, 200 mg/l Ca²⁺, 250 mg/l K⁺, and 600 mg/l Na⁺, and pH 4 to simulate a geothermal brine found in Sibayak, Indonesia. An electrochemical measurement was performed by monitoring the open circuit potential over seven days, with the interruption by EIS every 22 hours. The experiments were performed at room temperature and 150 °C (1 MPa) in an oxygen-free environment. Impedance spectra showed a reduction of the total impedance value of approximately 10 times for specimens measured at 150 °C compared to the specimens measured at room temperature, suggesting a less stable layer at high temperature.
This contribution provides current findings regarding materials susceptibility for carbon capture, utilization and storage (CCUS) applications. Basing on results gathered in 2 German long-term projects (COORAL and CLUSTER) suitable materials are introduced as well as dominating impurities of the CO2-stream and corrosion mechanisms. Investigations cover the whole CCUS process chain and provide material recommendations for certain parts.
Roaldite – Fe4N – has been identified in the São Julião de Moreira iron meteorite using electron backscatter diffraction (EBSD) and simultaneously acquired energy-dispersive x-ray spectroscopy (EDS). Mean-periodic-number images derived from raw EBSD patterns confirm this phase by an even higher spatial resolution compared to EDS.
Roaldite appears in the form of systematically and repetitively aligned plates. Despite the locally heavy plastic deformation, it is shown that the origin of the oriented precipitation of roaldite is linked to the orientation of the kamacite matrix. Roaldite can be considered to be precipitated from kamacite using an inverse Kurdjumov-Sachs (K-S) or Nishiyama-Wassermann (N-W) orientation relationship. A more accurate discrimination is impossible due to the accumulated shock deformation, which blurs the local reference orientation of kamacite. The habit plane of roaldite is found to be {112}R, which is most likely parallel to {120}K of kamacite. Some of the roaldite plates contain two orientation variants which repeatedly alternate. Their misorientation angle is about 12°.
To study the effects of condensed acid liquid, hereafter referred to as condensate, on the CO2 transport pipeline steels, gas mixtures containing a varying concentration of H2O, O2, NO2, and SO2, were proposed and resulted in the condensate containing H2SO4 and HNO3 with the pH ranging from 0.5 to 2.5. By exposing the pipeline steel to the synthetic condensate with different concentration of acidic components, the corrosion kinetic is significantly changed. Reaction kinetic was studied using electrochemical methods coupled with water analysis and compared with surface analysis (scanning electron microscopy (SEM), energy-dispersive X-ray spectroscopy (EDS), and X-ray diffractometry (XRD)) of corroded coupons. The results showed that, although the condensation of NO2 in the form of HNO3 causes faster general corrosion rate, it is the condensation of SO2 in the form of H2SO4 or the combination of SO2 and NO2 that may cause much more severe problems in the form of localized and pitting corrosions. The resulting corrosion forms were depended on the chemical nature of acids and their concentration at the same investigated pH. The effects of changing CO2 flow rate and renewing condensate on pitting corrosion were further studied.
Interfacial properties related to wettability and corrosion in CO2 transport pipelines are experimentally determined by the sessile and the pendant drop methods. The contact angle of a water drop in a compressed CO2 atmosphere is analyzed on an X70 pipeline carbon steel and compared to that on a martensitic steel S41500 to elucidate the effect of corrosion process on active wetting behaviour. The measurements are performed with liquid CO2 at 278 K and pressures ranging from 5 to 20 MPa. The results show that the contact angle (CA) increases with pressure from 132 ° to 143 ° for S41500 and from 117 ° to 137 ° for X70 and decreases with drop age by 20 ° to 24 ° regardless of the pressure and of the fact that corrosion only occurs on X70, which is confirmed by scanning electron microscopy, element mapping and energy dispersive x-ray spectrometry (EDS) analysis. At higher pressure, the contact angles on both materials converge. Further, related properties like density and interfacial tension were determined. CO2 - saturated water has a higher density than pure water: At 5 MPa saturated water reaches a density of 1017 kg⋅m^(-3) and at 20 MPa 1026 kg⋅m^(-3) compared to pure water with a density of 1002 kg⋅m^(-3) and 1009 kg⋅m^(-3), respectively. In this pressure range the IFT drops from 33 mN⋅m^(-1)at 5 MPa to 23 mN⋅m^(-1) at 20 MPa.
Alkali and alkaline earth chlorides are discussed as heat storage media and are characterized by their low price and high availability. Disadvantages are a high corrosion rate and formation of Cr6+ ions in the melt, as observed in various binary chlorine salt melts. In our work the system NaCl-KCl-MgCl2 is considered. The storage capacity in this salt system is between 2 and 3 MWh per 10 t salt, depending on composition, melting temperature and working temperature. At the same time the system offers a eutectic line, which allows a high variance of the composition and possibly different corrosion rates can be observed. Corrosion tests in melts were carried out and the corrosion layers investigated. The tests with chloride melts on 12% Cr steel show an inner corrosion zone of up to 40 µm depth after 96 hours. The corrosion mechanisms and potential solutions are discussed.
This contribution provides current findings regarding materials susceptibility for carbon capture, utilization and storage (CCUS) applications. Basing on results gathered in 2 German long-term projects (COORAL and CLUSTER) suitable materials are introduced as well as dominating impurities of the CO2-stream and corrosion mechanisms. Investigations cover the whole CCUS process chain and provide material recommendations for certain parts.
Carbon Capture Utilization and Storage (CCUS) is a promising technology to reach the target for reduction of CO2 emissions. Crucial points for a sustainable and future-proof CCUS system are reliability and cost efficiency of the whole process chain, including separation of CO2 from the source, compression of CO2, its subsequent transportation to the injection site and injection into geological formations, e.g. aquifers. Recent studies have shown that even at a very low concentration of impurities, condensation of sulfuric and nitric acids in dense phase CO2 are possible and observable. Thus, impact of impure CO2 stream toward corrosion susceptibility of materials to be used in CCUS system need to be considered. In this talk, basing on results achieved from two German long-term projects (COORAL and CLUSTER), the dominating impurities of the CO2 stream and corrosion mechanisms are addressed. Investigations cover the whole CCUS process chain and provide a material recommendation for certain parts.
Early Stage of Corrosion Formation on Pipeline Steel X70 Under Oxyfuel Atmosphere at Low Temperature
(2020)
The early stage of corrosion formation on X70 pipeline steel under oxyfuel atmosphere was investigated by applying a simulated gas mixture (CO2 containing 6700 ppmv O2, 100 ppmv NO2, 70 ppmv SO2 and 50 ppmv H2O) for 15 h at 278 K and ambient pressure. Short-term tests (6 h) revealed that the corrosion starts as local spots related to grinding marks progressing by time and moisture until a closed layer was formed. Acid droplets (pH 1.5), generated in the gas atmosphere, containing a mixture of H2SO4 and HNO3, were identified as corrosion starters. After 15 h of exposure, corrosion products were mainly X-ray amorphous and only partially crystalline. In-situ energy-dispersive X-ray diffraction (EDXRD) results showed that the crystalline fractions consist primarily of water-bearing iron sulfates. Applying Raman spectroscopy, water-bearing iron nitrates were detected as subordinated phases. Supplementary long-term tests exhibited a significant increase in the crystalline fraction and formation of additional water-bearing iron sulfates. All phases of the corrosion layer were intergrown in a nanocrystalline network. In addition, numerous globular structures have been detected above the corrosion layer, which were identified as hydrated iron sulphate and hematite. As a type of corrosion, shallow pit formation was identified, and the corrosion rate was about 0.1 mma−1. In addition to in-situ EDXRD, SEM/EDS, TEM, Raman spectroscopy and interferometry were used to chemically and microstructurally analyze the corrosion products.
The suitability of an Al2O3 coating for corrosion protection on X20Cr13 was evaluated in various artificial geothermal brines, focusing on the influence of different pH (4, 6 and 8) and their chemical compositions on the coating properties. All experiments were performed in the laboratory using autoclaves at 150 ◦C and 1 MPa in deaerated condition for 1 and 7 days. Results showed that the pH of geothermal waters is the most detrimental factor in the transformation of ɣ-Al2O3 and its protective abilities. Delaminations were found in the Coating exposed to geothermal brines with pH 4. FTIR spectra indicated a transformation of ɣ-Al2O3 to boehmite AlOOH after exposure to pH 4 and 6, and bayerite Al(OH)3 was formed after exposure to pH 8. Different Crystal structures of the hydrated Al2O3 also contribute to the stability of the coatings, observed by the SEM- EDX of the surface and cross-section of coatings. This study indicated that ɣ-Al2O3 sol-gel coating presents a promising aspect of corrosion protection in geothermal environment with a neutral pH.
A variety of materials of technological interest change their properties through contact with reactive media. Solid-gas reactions lead to a variety of reaction products on the surfaces and internal interfaces. The observation of nucleation and growth processes in the environment where they occur (in situ) from a chemical-structural perspective is especially challenging for aggressive atmospheres. The talk presents innovative approaches to study corrosion mechanisms using advanced X-ray methods. Using energy dispersive X-ray diffraction and X-ray absorption spectroscopy in different tailor made environmental reaction chambers, valuable insights into high temperature oxidation and sulfidation processes were gained. Fe-based alloys were exposed to hot and reactive atmospheres containing gases like SO2, H2O and O2 at 650°C. During the gas exposure the tailor made reaction chambers were connected to a high energy diffraction end station at the synchrotron. The crystallization and growth of oxide and sulfide reaction products at the alloy surfaces were monitored by collecting full diffraction pattern every minute. Careful examination of shape and intensity of phase-specific reflections enabled to a detailed view on growth kinetics. These studies showed, oxides are the first phases occurring immediately after experimental start. As soon as reactive gas media enter the chamber, the conditions change and different reaction products, such as sulfides start to grow. A comparison of different gas environments applied, illustrated the differences in the type of reaction products. The in situ observation of high temperature material degradation by corrosion made it possible to study the contribution of phases, which are not stable at room temperature. For instance, wuestite (Fe1-xO), was frequently observed at high temperatures in humid gases on Fe with 2 wt.% and 9 wt.% chromium, but not at room temperature. The strength of the occurrence of this phase additionally explains why, despite a higher Cr content, ferritic alloys with 9 wt.% Cr in a challenging atmosphere prevent the intrinsic formation of protective layers. The in situ observations were supplemented by careful considerations of thermodynamic boundary conditions and detailed post characterization by classical metallographic analysis. Additionally, the structure and chemistry of the dominant oxide layers were evaluated using X-ray absorption near edge structure spectroscopy. The talk will give an overview about chances and challenges for studying high temperature corrosion phenomena by advanced X-ray methods.
Al2O3 has been widely used as a coating in industrial applications due to its excellent chemical and thermal resistance. Considering high temperatures and aggressive mediums exist in geothermal systems, Al2O3 can be a potential coating candidate to protect steels in geothermal applications. In this study, γ-Al2O3 was used as a coating on martensitic steels by applying AlOOH sol followed by a heat treatment at 600 °C. To evaluate the coating application process, one-, two-, and three-layer coatings were tested in the artificial North German Basin (NGB), containing 166 g/L Cl−, at 150 °C and 1 MPa for 168 h. To reveal the stability of the Al2O3 coating in NGB solution, three-layer coatings were used in exposure tests for 24, 168, 672, and 1296 h, followed by surface and cross-section characterization. SEM images show that the Al2O3 coating was stable up to 1296 h of exposure, where the outer layer mostly transformed into boehmite AlOOH with needle-like crystals dominating the surface. Closer analysis of cross-sections showed that the interface between each layer was affected in long-term exposure tests, which caused local delamination after 168 h of exposure. In separate experiments, electrochemical impedance spectroscopy (EIS) was performed at 150 °C to evaluate the changes of coatings within the first 24 h. Results showed that the most significant decrease in the impedance is within 6 h, which can be associated with the electrolyte penetration through the coating, followed by the formation of AlOOH. Here, results of both short-term EIS measurements (up to 24 h) and long-term exposure tests (up to 1296 h) are discussed.
Static immersion tests of potential injection pipe steels 42CrMo4, X20Cr13, X46Cr13, X35CrMo4, and X5CrNiCuNb16-4 at T = 60 °C and ambient pressure, as well as p = 100 bar were performed for 700–8000 h in a CO₂-saturated synthetic aquifer environment similar to CCS sites in the Northern German Basin (NGB). Corrosion rates at 100 bar are generally lower than at ambient pressure. The main corrosion products are FeCO₃ and FeOOH with surface and local corrosion phenomena directly related to the alloy composition and microstructure. The appropriate heat treatment enhances corrosion resistance. The lifetime reduction of X46Cr13, X5CrNiCuNb16-4, and duplex stainless steel X2CrNiMoN22-5-3 in a CCS environment is demonstrated in the in situ corrosion fatigue CF experiments (axial push-pull and rotation bending load, 60 °C, brine: Stuttgart Aquifer and NGB, flowing CO₂: 30 L/h, +/- applied potential). Insulating the test setup is necessary to gain reliable data. S-N plots, micrographic-, phase-, fractographic-, and surface analysis prove that the life expectancy of X2CrNiMoN22-5-3 in the axial cyclic load to failure is clearly related to the surface finish, applied stress amplitude, and stress mode. The horizontal grain attack within corrosion pit cavities, multiple fatigue cracks, and preferable deterioration of austenitic phase mainly cause fatigue failure. The CF life range increases significantly when a protective potential is applied.
CO2 quality specifications are not only a matter of CO2 purity (i.e. CO2 content).
The “rest” also matters, in particular contents of reactive impurities affecting material corrosion (and rock alteration).
Also chemical reactions in CO2 stream needs to be considered, in particular when combining CO2 streams of different compositions.
Al2O3 coatings are often used as protective layers on steels against electrochemical and high-temperature corrosion because they are chemically inert and stable at elevated temperatures. This study presents preliminary work on the possibilities of using Al2O3 sol-gel coatings for corrosion protection of martensitic stainless steels in geothermal environments. Al2O3 sol-gel coatings were applied on UNS S42000, which is known to be susceptible to uniform and localized corrosion. The coated steel specimens were then tested in two types of artificial geothermal water, which simulate the geothermal fluids found in Sibayak (SBY), Indonesia, and North German Basin (NGB), Germany, respectively. SBY has pH 4 and 1.5 g/L of chloride ions, whereas NGB has a pH of 6 and 166 g/L of chloride ions. All experiments were carried out in autoclaves at 150 °C and 1 MPa under the deaerated condition. Evaluations were performed by investigating the surface profiles of both uncoated and coated steels before and after the corrosion test using a Laser Scanning Microscope (LSM) and Scanning Electron Microscope (SEM). Finally, Electrochemical Impedance Spectroscopy (EIS) was performed to compare the corrosion resistance of Al2O3 coated steels in SBY and NGB solutions. It was observed from the corrosion test that Al2O3 coatings are more suitable for use in the geothermal water with a higher pH.
The collaborative project “Impacts of impurities in CO2 streams captured from different emitters in a regional cluster on transport, injection and storage (CLUSTER)” aimed to set up recommendations on how to define “reasonable minimum composition thresholds” that CO2 streams should meet when accessing CO2 transport pipeline networks. Within CLUSTER, we investigated potential impacts of CO2 streams with different and temporally variable compositions and mass flow rates along the whole CCS chain. Investigations included, amongst others, impacts on: Corrosion of pipeline steel, pipeline network design and related transport costs, alteration of well bore cements, pressure evelopment and rock integrity, geochemical reactions, and petrophysical and geomechanical rock properties.
All investigations are based on a generic CCS chain scenario. In this scenario, CO2 streams are captured from a spatial cluster of eleven emitters and collected in a regional pipeline network. Emitters comprise seven fossil fuel-fired power plants equipped with different capture technologies, two cement plants, one refinery and one integrated iron and steel plant. In total, 19.78 Mio t CO2 (including impurities) are captured in the emitter cluster annually. The combined CO2 stream is transported in a trunk line with a length of 400 km (100 km of these offshore) and is injected into five generic storage structures. The storage reservoirs are saline aquifers of the Buntsandstein.
The investigations revealed beneficial and deteriorating impacts of different impurities and combinations thereof. Overall, no fundamental technical obstacles for transporting, injecting and storing CO2 streams of the modelled variable compositions and mass flow rates were observed. Based on the results, the CLUSTER project team recommends not to define “minimum composition thresholds” for CO2 streams as strict threshold values for eachindividual impurity in the stream. Instead, CO2 stream compositions and variabilities for specific CCS projects should be constrained with regard to a set of parameters including i) the overall CO2 content, ii) maximum contents of relevant impurities or elements, iii) acceptable variability of CO2 stream composition, and iv)impurity combinations to be avoided.
The collaborative project “Impacts of impurities in CO2 streams captured from different emitters in a regional cluster on transport, injection and storage (CLUSTER)” aimed to set up recommendations on how to define “reasonable minimum composition thresholds” that CO2 streams should meet when accessing CO2 transport pipeline networks. Within CLUSTER, we investigated potential impacts of CO2 streams with different and temporally variable compositions and mass flow rates along the whole CCS chain. Investigations included, amongst others, impacts on: Corrosion of pipeline steel, pipeline network design and related transport costs, alteration of well bore cements, pressure development and rock integrity, geochemical reactions, and petrophysical and geomechanical rock properties.
All investigations are based on a generic CCS chain scenario. In this scenario, CO2 streams are captured from a spatial cluster of eleven emitters and collected in a regional pipeline network. Emitters comprise seven fossil fuel-fired power plants equipped with different capture technologies, two cement plants, one refinery and one integrated iron and steel plant. In total, 19.78 Mio t CO2 (including impurities) are captured in the emitter cluster annually. The combined CO2 stream is transported in a trunk line with a length of 400 km (100 km of these offshore) and is injected into five generic storage structures. The storage reservoirs are saline aquifers of the Buntsandstein.
The investigations revealed beneficial and deteriorating impacts of different impurities and combinations thereof. Overall, no fundamental technical obstacles for transporting, injecting and storing CO2 streams of the modelled variable compositions and mass flow rates were observed. Based on the results, the CLUSTER project team recommends not to define “minimum composition thresholds” for CO2 streams as strict threshold values for each individual impurity in the stream. Instead, CO2 stream compositions and variabilities for specific CCS projects should be constrained with regard to a set of parameters including i) the overall CO2 content, ii) maximum contents of relevant impurities or elements, iii) acceptable variability of CO2 stream composition, and iv) impurity combinations to be avoided.
Al2O3 coatings are often used as protective layers on steels against electrochemical and high-temperature corrosion because they are chemically inert and stable at elevated temperatures. This study presents preliminary work on the possibilities of using Al2O3 sol-gel coatings for corrosion protection of martensitic stainless steels in geothermal environments. Al2O3 sol-gel coatings were applied on UNS S42000, which is known to be susceptible to uniform and localized corrosion. The coated steel specimens were then tested in two types of artificial geothermal water, which simulate the geothermal fluids found in Sibayak (SBY), Indonesia, and North German Basin (NGB), Germany, respectively. SBY has pH 4 and 1.5 g/L of chloride ions, whereas NGB has a pH of 6 and 166 g/L of chloride ions. All experiments were carried out in autoclaves at 150 °C and 1 MPa under the deaerated condition. Evaluations were performed by investigating the surface profiles of both uncoated and coated steels before and after the corrosion test using a Laser Scanning Microscope (LSM) and Scanning Electron Microscope (SEM). Finally, Electrochemical Impedance Spectroscopy (EIS) was performed to compare the corrosion resistance of Al2O3 coated steels in SBY and NGB solutions. It was observed from the corrosion test that Al2O3 coatings are more suitable for use in the geothermal water with a higher pH.
For reliability and safety issues of injection wells, corrosion resistance of materials used needs to be determined. Herein, representative low-cost materials, including carbon steel X70/1.8977 and low alloyed steel 1.7225, were embedded in mortar to mimic the realistic casing-mortar interface. Two types of cement were investigated: (1) Dyckerhoff Variodur commercial Portland cement, representing a highly acidic resistant cement and (2) Wollastonite, which can react with CO2 and become stable under a CO2 stream due to the carbonation process. Exposure tests were performed under 10 MPa and at 333 K in artificial aquifer fluid for up to 20 weeks, revealing crevice corrosion and uniform corrosion instead of expected pitting corrosion. To clarify the role of cement, simulated pore water was made by dispersing cement powder in aquifer fluid and used as a solution to expose steels. Surface analysis, accompanied by element mapping on exposed specimens and their crosssections, was carried out to trace the chloride intrusion and corrosion process that followed.
Static immersion tests of potential injection pipe steels 42CrMo4, X20Cr13, X46Cr13, X35CrMo4, and X5CrNiCuNb16-4 at T = 60°C and ambient pressure, as well as p = 100 bar were performed for 700–8000 h in a CO2-saturated synthetic aquifer environment similar to CCS sites in the Northern German Basin (NGB). Corrosion rates at 100 bar are generally lower than at ambient pressure. The main corrosion products are FeCO3 and FeOOH with surface and local corrosion phenomena directly related to the alloy composition and microstructure. The appropriate heat treatment enhances corrosion resistance. The lifetime reduction of X46Cr13, X5CrNiCuNb16-4, and duplex stainless steel X2CrNiMoN22-5-3 in a CCS environment is demonstrated in the in situ corrosion fatigue CF experiments (axial push-pull and rotation bending load, 60°C , brine: Stuttgart Aquifer and NGB, flowing CO2: 30 L/h, +/- applied potential). Insulating the test setup is necessary to gain reliable data. S-N plots, micrographic-, phase-, fractographic-, and surface analysis prove that the life expectancy of X2CrNiMoN22-5-3 in the axial cyclic load to failure is clearly related to the surface finish, applied stress amplitude, and stress mode. The horizontal grain attack within corrosion pit cavities, multiple fatigue cracks, and preferable deterioration of austenitic phase mainly cause fatigue failure. The CF life range increases significantly when a protective potential is applied.
Molten salt containing systems gain in importance for sustainable energy use and production. For research and development, interactions of molten salts with potential container materials are of major interest. This article introduces preparation procedures to display an intact metal and salt microstructure and their interface using light optical microscopy and scanning electron microscopy. The exemplary material combination is the ternary salt mixture NaCl-KCl-MgCl2 and the low alloyed steel 1.4901 (T92) with a maximum service temperature of 550 °C. These are potential elements/materials for use in latent heat thermal energy storages.
The collaborative project “Impacts of impurities in CO2 streams captured from different emitters in a regional cluster on transport, injection and storage (CLUSTER)” aimed to set up recommendations on how to define “reasonable minimum composition thresholds” that CO2 streams should meet when accessing CO2 transport pipeline networks. Within CLUSTER, we investigated potential impacts of CO2 streams with different and temporally variable compositions and mass flow rates along the whole CCS chain. Investigations included, amongst others, impacts on:
• corrosion of pipeline steel,
• pipeline network design and related transport costs,
• alteration of well bore cements,
• pressure development and rock integrity,
• geochemical reactions, and
• petrophysical and geomechanical rock properties.
All investigations are based on a generic CCS chain scenario. In this scenario, CO2 streams are captured from a spatial cluster of eleven emitters and collected in a regional pipeline network. Emitters comprise seven fossil fuel-fired power plants equipped with different capture technologies, two cement plants, one refinery and one integrated iron and steel plant. In total, 19.78 Mio t CO2 (including impurities) are captured in the emitter cluster annually. The combined CO2 stream is transported in a trunk line with a length of 400 km (100 km of these offshore) and is injected into five generic storage structures. The storage reservoirs are saline aquifers of the Buntsandstein.
The investigations revealed beneficial and deteriorating impacts of different impurities and combinations thereof. Overall, no fundamental technical obstacles for transporting, injecting and storing CO2 streams of the modelled variable compositions and mass flow rates were observed. Based on the results, the CLUSTER project team recommends not to define “minimum composition thresholds” for CO2 streams as strict threshold values for each individual impurity in the stream. Instead, CO2 stream compositions and variabilities for specific CCS projects should be constrained with regard to a set of parameters including i) the overall CO2 content, ii) maximum contents of relevant impurities or elements, iii) acceptable variability of CO2 stream composition, and iv) impurity combinations to be avoided.
Immersion tests of potential injection pipe steels 42CrMo4, X20Cr13, X46Cr13, X35CrMo4 and X5CrNiCuNb16-4 at T=60 °C and ambient pressure and p=100 bar were performed for 700 h - 8000 h in a CO₂-saturated synthetic aquifer environment similar to CCS-sites in the Northern-German-Basin. Main corrosion products are FeCO₃ and FeOOH. Highest surface corrosion rates at ambient pressure are 0.8 mm/year for 42CrMo4 and lowest 0.01 mm/year for X5CrNiCuNb16-4. Corrosion rates at 100 bar (max. 0.01 mm/year for 42CrMo4, X20Cr13, X46Cr13) are generally lower than at ambient pressure (<0.01 mm/year for X35CrMo4, X5CrNiCuNb16-4). Heat treatment to martensitic microstructure offers good corrosion resistance.
In CCS environment (carbon capture and storage) pipes are loaded statically and/or cyclically and at the same time exposed constantly to the highly corrosive hot thermal water. Experimental procedures such as ambient pressure immersions tests, in-situ corrosion fatigue experiments using a flexibly designed corrosion chamber at ambient pressure and a specially designed corrosion chamber at high pressure. Experimental set-ups for push/pull and rotation bending load are introduced. The corrosion behavior and lifetime reduction of high alloyed steels (X46Cr13, 1.4043), (X5CrNiCuNb16-4, 1.4542) and (X2CrNiMoN22-5-3, 1.4462) is demonstrated (T=60 °C, geothermal brine: Stuttgart Aquifer flow rate: 9 l/h, CO₂).
Study of Polyaniline/Silicon Dioxide based Coating on Carbon Steel in Artificial Geothermal Brine
(2021)
Geothermal brines are corrosive in nature because of their salt contents and high temperatures. Therefore, they pose a major challenge to geothermal power-plants, which are mostly built of low alloyed steels, e.g., carbon steel. Carbon steel is susceptible to uniform and localized corrosion when exposed to geothermal brines having acidic-saline properties. To overcome this limitation, geothermal power plants should be built by either high alloyed materials or by integrating protection systems on carbon steel, such as coatings and inhibitors. We studied a coating system containing polyaniline/silicon dioxide basing on locally available resources that provides protection against corrosion of carbon steel and enhance the thermal resistance in geothermal environments. Here, exposure and electrochemical tests of coated carbon steels were performed in an artificial geothermal brine. The solution had a pH of 4, with the composition of 1,500 mg/L of chlorides, which is based on the chemical analysis of geothermal brine found in Sibayak, Indonesia. All exposure tests were conducted using autoclaves at 150 °C with a total pressure of 1 MPa, which was performed for up to six months to evaluate the durability of the coating system. Post-experimental analyses were performed by assessing the surface of specimens using optical and electron microscopes. On the other hand, electrochemical tests were performed for seven days at 25 °C and 150 °C to investigate the kinetics of electrochemical reactions by measuring open circuit potential and electrochemical impedance spectra. Experimental results showed the corrosion resistance of PANI/SiO2 composite coatings, where polyaniline and SiO2 play their roles as stabilizers.
Study of Polyaniline/Silicon Dioxide based Coating on Carbon Steel in Artificial Geothermal Brine
(2021)
By using the available resources in Indonesia, such as silicon dioxide and marine coating base, the PANI/SiO2 modified alkyd coating was able to protect carbon steel in a deaerated artificial geothermal water. The screening of coatings shows that the modification by adding individual pigment was not sufficient to protect carbon steel even during a short-term exposure, indicated by the discoloration after only seven days of exposure. Electrochemical tests indicated that there was no significant change in the Ecorr between the coated and uncoated carbon steel at room temperature. At 150 °C, the coated carbon steel has a lower potential than that of carbon steel, indicating that the coating is protecting carbon steel cathodically or slowing down the corrosion reaction. Finally, a long-term exposure test confirmed that the PANI/SiO2 modified coating successfully protects the carbon steel in the Sibayak artificial geothermal water up to 150 °C for 6 months.
To mitigate carbon dioxide emissions CO2 is compressed and sequestrated into deep geological layers (Carbon Capture and Storage CCS). The corrosion of injection pipe steels is induced when the metal is in contact with CO2 and at the same time the geological saline formation water. Stainless steels X35CrMo17 and X5CrNiCuNb16-4 with approximately 17% Cr show potential as injection pipes to engineer the Northern German Basin geological onshore CCS-site. Static laboratory experiments (T = 60 ◦C, p = 100 bar, 700–8000 h exposure time, aquifer water, CO2-flow rate of 9 L/h) were conducted to evaluate corrosion kinetics. The anomalous surface corrosion phenomena were found to be independent of heat treatment prior to exposure. The corrosion process is described as a function of the atmosphere and diffusion process of ionic species to explain the precipitation mechanism and better estimate the reliability of these particular steels in a downhole CCS environment.
Early material damage in equimolar CrMnFeCoNi in mixed oxidizing/sulfiding hot gas atmosphere
(2022)
The challenges to use more varied fuels at medium and high temperatures above 500 °C need to be addressed by tuning the materials toward a better resistance against increased corrosion. As a first step the corrosion processes need to be better understood, especially in the case of the unavoidable and highly corrosive sulfur-based gases. Herein, oxidation/sulfidation of an equimolar CrMnFeCoNi high-entropy alloy is studied at an early stage after hot gas exposure at 600 °C for 6 h in 0.5% SO2 and 99.5% Ar. The oxidation process is studied by means of X-ray diffraction, scanning and transmission electron microscopy, and supported by thermodynamic calculations. It is found that the sulfur does not enter the bulk material but interacts mainly with the fast-diffusing manganese at grain boundary triple junctions at the alloy surface. Submicrometer scaled Cr–S–O-rich phases close to the grain boundaries complete the sulfur-based phase formation. The grains are covered in different Fe-, Mn-, and Cr-based spinels and other oxides.
A global transition towards more sustainable, affordable and reliable energy systems is being stimulated by the Paris Agreement and the United Nation's 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development. This poses a challenge for the corrosion industry, as building climate‐resilient energy systems and infrastructures brings with it a long‐term direction, so as a result the long‐term behaviour of structural materials (mainly metals and alloys) becomes a major prospect. With this in mind “Corrosion Challenges Towards a Sustainable Society” presents a series of cases showing the importance of corrosion protection of metals and alloys in the development of energy production to further understand the science of corrosion, and bring the need for research and the consequences of corrosion into public and political focus. This includes emphasis on the limitation of greenhouse gas emissions, on the lifetime of infrastructures, implants, cultural heritage artefacts, and a variety of other topics.
To reveal the corrosion resistance of casing steel/mortar interface in CO2 injection condition, sandwich samples were prepared and exposed up to 20 weeks in aquifer fluid under 10 MPa and 60 °C. Cross section analysis revealed the crevice corrosion as main mechanism instead of pitting corrosion, which would be expected to happen in the extremely high Chloride concentration. Detailed analysis using EDS line scan shown the slow diffusion of Chloride, suggesting why pitting did not happen after 20 weeks. To mimic the passivated steel surface, the steel coupon was passivated in simulated pore solution having pH 13.5 for 42 days. The passivated coupon was further exposed to NGB solution for 28 days. Electrochemical characterization was performed along the exposure processes to reveal the change in impedance, indicating the corrosion resistance of steel casing/mortar interface.
Early Material Damage in Equimolar CrMnFeCoNi in Mixed Oxidizing/Sulfiding Hot Gas Atmosphere
(2022)
The challenges to use more varied fuels at medium and high temperatures above 500 °C need to be addressed by tuning the materials towards a better resistance against increased corrosion. As a first step the corrosion processes need to be better understood, especially in the case of the unavoidable and highly corrosive sulfur-based gases. In this work oxidation/sulfidation of an equimolar CrMnFeCoNi high entropy alloy is studied at an early stage after hot gas exposure at 600 °C for 6 h in 0.5% SO2 and 99.5% Ar. The oxidation process is studied by means of x-ray diffraction, scanning and transmission electron microscopy and supported by thermodynamic calculations. It is found that the sulfur does not enter the bulk material but interacts mainly with the fast-diffusing manganese at grain boundary triple junctions at the alloy surface. Sub-micrometer scaled Cr-S-O rich phases close to the grain boundaries complete the sulfur-based phase formation. The grains are covered in different Fe, Mn and Cr based spinels and other oxides.
Early Material Damage in Equimolar CrMnFeCoNi in Mixed Oxidizing/Sulfiding Hot Gas Atmosphere
(2022)
The use of more and more varied fuels implies an increased list of criteria that need to be addressed when choosing a material for a combustion chamber and its supply pipes. The materials must be very resistant against corrosion, especially when the process takes place at temperatures above 500°C. In this work the influence of SO2 on the surface of the “Cantor alloy” is investigated.
Commercially available carbon steels are suitable for compression and pipelines as long as moisture content and impurities are limited. (water 50 to 100 ppmv, SO2 and NO2 ca. 100 ppmv) Corrosion rates increase with increasing water content. (0.2 – 20 mm/a) Condensation of acids and therefore droplet formation is always possible, even at low water contents. A low SO2 content within the CO2-stream might be more important than a low water content. Cr13-steels showed a general susceptibility to shallow pitting and pitting. So, they seem to be not suitable for CCUS applications. Low alloyed steels showed better corrosion behavior (predictable uniform corrosion). For direct contact with saline aquifer fluids only high alloyed steels shall be used.
The high-temperature corrosion behaviors of the equimolar CrCoNi medium- and CrMnFeCoNi high-entropy alloy were studied in a gas atmosphere consisting of a volumetric mixture of 10% H2O, 2% O2, 0.5% SO2, and 87.5% Ar at 800 °C for up to 96 h. Both alloys were initially single-phase fcc structured and showed a mean grain size of ~50 µm and a homogeneous chemical composition. The oxide layer thickness of the Cantor alloy CrMnFeCoNi increased linearly with exposure time while it remained constant at ~1 µm for CrCoNi. A Cr2O3 layer and minor amounts of (Co,Ni)Cr2O4 developed on CrCoNi while three layers were detected on the Cantor alloy. These layers were a thin and continuous chromium rich oxide layer at the oxide/alloy interface, a dense (Mn,Cr)3O4 layer in the center and a thick and porous layer of Mn3O4 and MnSO4 at the gas/oxide interface. Additionally, a few metal sulfides were observed in the CrMnFeCoNi matrix. These results were found to be in reasonable agreement with thermodynamic calculations.
While a lage amount of research on high entropy alloys is oriented towards mechanical properties and the microstructural improvement it is also necessary to keep an eye on the environment that potential application materials will be submitted to. The Co-Cr-Fe-Ni based high entropy family has shown great potential over the years of high entropy research and some candidate alloys are chosen for an insight into their corrosion behaviour. Several atmospheres are studied, i.e. O2, H2O, SO2 and a mix thereof in argon as well as synthetic air. Just as for classic alloys, the chromium is the most important element in terms of protection agains further corrosion. The addition of manganese, as in case of the “Cantor alloy” CrMnFeCoNi, overpasses Cr when it comes to oxygen affinity and thus counteracts the layer formation of Cr2O3. Even without Mn, a temperature chosen too high will also affect the formation of the chromium oxide layer and spall it off, annulling its protective potential. We can also observe how trace elements influence the layer formation. These effects and their mechanisms will be discussed for the alloys CrFeNi, CoCrNi, CrMnFeCoNi and variations of Al10Co25Cr8Fe15Ni36Ti6 using a combination of electron microscopy, thermodynamic calculations and x-ray diffraction.
High‐temperature KCl‐induced corrosion of high Cr and Ni alloys investigated by in‐situ diffraction
(2024)
High‐temperature KCl‐induced corrosion in laboratory air was observed in situ utilizing X‐ray diffraction. High Cr‐containing model alloys (Fe‐13Cr, Fe‐18Cr‐12Ni, and Fe‐25Cr‐20Ni) were coated with KCl and exposed to dry air at 560°C. KCl‐free alloys were studied in the equivalent atmosphere as a reference. After exposure to KCl‐free environments, all alloys showed the formation of very thin oxide layers, indicating good corrosion resistance. In contrast, KCl‐bearing alloys showed distinct damage after exposure.