The Nanostructure of the Oxide Formed on Fe–10Cr–4Al Exposed in Liquid Pb

Abstract An Fe–10Cr–4Al alloy containing reactive elements developed for application in high-temperature liquid lead environments was analyzed after exposure 600 and 750°C with dissolved oxygen 1,000–2,000 h. Atom probe tomography, transmission electron microscopy, X-ray scattering were all used to study the protective oxide formed on surface. Exposure at resulted a 2-μm thick oxide, whereas 600°C 100-nm oxide. Both oxides layered, an Fe–Al spinel top, alumina layer toward metal. In exposed material, there Cr-rich between alumina. Metallic particles found inner middle parts of related pores. The combination experimental techniques, focusing atom interpretations that can be done, are discussed detail.