Understanding the fretting corrosion mechanism of zirconium alloy exposed to high temperature high pressure water

Fretting corrosion of as received and shot peened zirconium alloys exposed to high temperature pressure water is tested. High resolution characterization techniques are applied study the microstructure composition worn surface. The results show that peening increases wear resistance material, changing mode from abrasive plus delamination wear. Mechanical promotes alloy by forming a thick dual-layer structure oxide scale in debris buildup area. While effects on fretting depend integrity scale.