High temperature oxidation behavior of $ZrSi_2$ and its coating on the surface of Zircaloy-4 tube by 3D-laser coating method

Abstract

The silicide of the transition metal is attracting attention as a new material in the high temperature industry due to its high melting point, low density and high temperature strength. In this research, high-temperature oxidation behavior of zirconium silicide was investigated. Samples were prepared by spark plasma sintering with powder. In-situ XRD measurements were carried out for 20 h at $900^\circ C$, $1000^\circ C$, and $1100^\circ C$ air. The microstructure of samples was examined by scanning electron microscope and before and after oxidation. TEM analysis of the oxide film was also performed for in-depth analysis. The coating of zirconium silicide on the surface of the zircaloy-4 tube was performed by a laser-cladding method. TGA was used for the high temperature steam oxidation behavior of coated zircaloy-4. The results of these experiments provide data on the suitability of zirconium silicide as coating materials on the Zircaloy-4 for accident tolerance fuel cladding.