Papers by Author: C. Anghel

Abstract: For long time it is known that protons in aqueous solutions have a detrimental effect on metallic materials. Relatively recently, it has also been observed in aqueous solution that the pitting corrosion resistance of Cr, stainless steel 304 and 310 decreases and the anodic dissolution rate increases due to the presence of hydrogen in the metal. In gas phase a high oxidation rate has been observed for hydrogen containing Cr and Fe. Hydrogen in the substrate can also enhance the oxidation of Fe in SS 316 and As in GaAs. All these results suggest enhanced dissolution in aqueous solution and enhanced oxide growth at the oxide/gas interface in gas phase oxidation due to hydrogen promoted outward-transport of substrate components. A possible mechanism for such out-transport is an increased metal ion diffusivity in the metal-oxide due to a high abundance of metal ion vacancies generated by hydrogen. In contrast to all the above examples, also positive effects of hydrogen have been identified under certain conditions. In an attempt to understand both the negative and the positive effects the concept of a beneficial, balanced oxide growth is used. In this concept a certain amount of hydrogen can be beneficial in the oxidation by improving the balance between oxygen-ion and metalion transport, leading to more dense and protective oxides. Depending on the temperature, H2 in air is considered as either a sink or a source for hydrogen in materials.

Abstract: A better understanding of the transport properties of gases in oxides is certainly very important in many applications. In the case of metals, a general protection measure against corrosion implies formation of a dense metal oxide scale. The scale should act as a barrier against gas transport and consequently it needs to be gas-tight. This is often assumed but rarely, if ever, confirmed. Hence there is a need for characterization of micro- and/or meso- pores formed especially during the early oxidation stage of metallic materials. This paper presents a novel and relatively straightforward method for characterization of gas release from an oxide previously equilibrated in a controlled atmosphere. The geometry of the sample is approximated to be a plate. The plate can be self-supporting or constitute a scale on a substrate. A mathematical model for calculation of diffusivity and gas content is given for this geometry. A desorption experiment, involving a mass spectrometer placed in ultra high vacuum, can be used to determine diffusivity and amount of gas released with aid of the mathematical model. The method is validated in measurements of diffusivity and solubility of He in quartz and applied in characterization of two Zroxides and one Fe oxide. From the outgassed amounts of water and nitrogen the H2O/N2 molar ratio can be used to estimate an effective pore size in oxides.