Synergism of Al and Si occurs on corrosion of Ti3Al1−xSixC2 MAX in the static Pb-Bi eutectic at 550 ºC

Abstract

MAX phase ceramics attract increased attention for lead-cooled fast reactors due to their promising compatibility with lead-bismuth eutectic (LBE). This work systematically investigates the corrosion behaviors of five Ti3Al1−xSixC2 MAXs with Al/Si complex A component in static LBE at 550 ºC up to 3000 h. Based on the lattice structure, mechanical properties, surface morphologies, and elemental composition during corrosion, a synergism of Al and Si during oxidation and diffusion is found, which contributes to a continuous and well-attached Al2O3 layer with improved LBE corrosion resistance. Therefore, the multi-element design will bring a broad space for the applications of MAX ceramics.