In Situ Neutron Radiography Investigations of Hydrogen Related Processes in Zirconium Alloys

Abstract

In situ neutron radiography experiments can provide information about diffusive processes and the kinetics of chemical reactions. The paper discusses requirements for such investigations. As examples of the zirconium alloy Zircaloy-4, the hydrogen diffusion, the hydrogen uptake during high-temperature oxidation in steam, and the reaction in nitrogen/steam and air/steam atmospheres, results of in situ neutron radiography investigations are reviewed, and their benefit is discussed.

Keywords

• zirconium alloy
• hydrogen diffusion
• hydrogen uptake
• high-temperature oxidation