Electrothermal properties and interdiffusion behavior of Cr/Mo coated Zr-1Nb alloy under high temperature for corrosion resistance of nuclear reactor

This study investigates the high-temperature (HT) oxidation resistance and interdiffusion behavior of Cr/Mo thin-layer coatings on Zr-1Nb alloy, aimed at enhancing corrosion resistance in nuclear reactor components. Magnetron sputtered coatings Mo (3 μm)/Cr (8 μm) demonstrated significant improvements in oxidation resistance at 1100 °C. However, coating delamination occurred after 60 min, necessitating further optimization. Non-destructive testing (NDT) methods, including four probe point (FPP) resistivity and thermal electromotive force (thermoEMF) analysis, provided real-time insights into coating stability, highlighting their potential for advanced diagnostic applications. The findings suggest Cr/Mo-coated Zr-1Nb alloys as a promising material for accident-tolerant nuclear fuel claddings.