Abstract
The deployment of gelcasted MAX phase ceramic components in nuclear reactors is critical due to their exceptional performance. This study explores the corrosion behaviors of three gelcasted MAX phase ceramics (Ti3AlC2, Ti2AlC, and Ti3SiC2) in liquid lead-bismuth eutectic (LBE) at 600 °C under low oxygen conditions. Unique corrosion layers formed on the samples: Ti₃AlC₂ developed an Al2O3 inner layer and TiO2 outer layer, Ti₂AlC showed TiO2 grains coated with FeCr2O4 spinel, and Ti3SiC2 exhibited a composite layer of TiO2, Fe3O4, SiO2, PbO, and TiO2. LBE caused slight matrix enrichment in Ti₃AlC₂ and Ti₂AlC samples. Corrosion resistance was ranked as Ti3SiC2 > Ti3AlC2 > Ti₂AlC. Additionally, a coupled corrosion phenomenon resembling electrolytic electrodeposition between MAX phase ceramics and stainless steel was observed in contaminated LBE. This research provides novel insights into the corrosion mechanisms of MAX phases, paving the way for their application in advanced nuclear systems.
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