Effect of hydrogen in Inconel Alloy 600 on corrosion in high temperature oxygenated water

Corrosion test on hydrogen charged and uncharged coupons of Inconel Alloy 600 in high temperature oxygenated water showed more weight loss of charged coupon. Observation of the oxide film by transmission electron microscopy (TEM) showed a defective, thicker oxide layer on charged coupon. Analyses of the oxide film by TEM-energy dispersive X-ray spectroscopy and X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy indicated enrichment of Ni but depletion of Cr in the oxide film on charged coupon. The changes in corrosion behavior and microstructure of the oxide film were most likely due to the hydrogen enhanced preferential dissolution of Cr cations in the water. (C) 2009 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.