GOALI: Optimization of Zircaloy Intermetallics through Chemistry and Processing Controls

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9632043 Murty This GOALI grant supports an engineering student for a one year period in industry to investigate the effects of alloy chemistry and process factors on specific intermetallic phases which influence zirconium alloy (Zircaloy) properties and performance. Intermetallics undergo changes in structure that affect mechanical properties and corrosion resistance. The structural include phase nucleation, growth and restructuring during material processing, and these changes are strongly influenced by the concentrations of the alloying elements. Variables include beta-quench temperature and quench rate, post-beta-quench cold-work and annealing, and subsequent cold-work/anneal cycles to control final precipitate morphology. The research examines corrosion (nodular and uniform), microstructure (with particular attention to intermetallics), mechanical properties, and manufacturability, evaluated using automated ball indentation. Zirconium alloy sheet material is used to simulate tubing for ease of fabrication and testing. The study is performed in collaboration with the General Electric Company's Zircaloy manufacturing center in Wilmington, NC, and Vallecitos nuclear center in California. %%% Zircaloys are widely used in fission reactors as thin-walled tubing for cladding nuclear fuel, intermediate grids, channels (BWRs), and calandria tubing (PHWRs). The research program allows a student to learn on-site the metallurgical factors associated with the application of this alloy. ***