High-temperature corrosion behavior of hot-pressed Al-based Gd2O3-W shielding materials used in spent fuel storage

Abstract The high-temperature corrosion behavior of new types of Al-based Gd2O3-W composites prepared by hot-pressing and used in spent fuel storage were investigated. The samples were irradiated by Fe+ to simulate neutron and γ-ray irradiations and then corroded in a high-temperature boron-lithium-water environment. An outer flocculent AlO(OH) layer with a limited protective effect and an inner amorphous Al2O3 layer were formed on the surface. Pitting initiated from the Al-only portions and was inhibited by Gd-containing particles. The corrosion could bypass dispersed particles and led to a general corrosion. Irradiation resulted in more active corrosion sites and caused severe corrosion.