Review of Zircaloy Oxidation Behaviour

Abstract

This paper provides an overview of the kinetics for Zircaloy clad oxidation behaviour in steam and air during reactor accident conditions. The generation of chemical heat from metal/water reaction is considered. The effect of internal clad oxidation due to Zircaloy/UO₂ interaction is also discussed. Low-temperature oxidation of Zircaloy due to water-side corrosion is further described.