Abstract
In many instances, liquid metal corrosion is simply a question of solubility rate and extent of solubility. However, solubility and diffusion barriers may be developed from the components or impurities in the form of intermetallic compounds, metal oxides, nitrides and other surface films. This paper does not discuss in detail the desirability or formation of these films, but recognizes their existence and discusses the nature and extent of interaction between a variety of metals of relatively high melting point and low melting metals which are arbitrarily referred to as "liquid metals." Such metals and alloys are those which melt below 400 or 500 degrees Centigrade.
When a liquid metal comes in contact with a solid metal, a certain degree of interaction occurs. Since alloys may behave in a different fashion from pure metals, the paper discusses the behavior of each at some length, giving specific examples for each. Photomicrographs show results.
A thorough evaluation of a material under study for use in a given liquid metal should include a study of: 1. Dimensional changes; 2. Weight changes; 3. Changes in composition of the liquid metal; 4. Change in the chemical composition of the metal surface by chemical or spectrographs analysis; 5. Changes in crystal structure of metal surface by x-ray or electron diffraction; 6. Determination of nature and depth of attack by metallographic study; and 7. It is advisable sometimes to determine hardness changes or gradient to supplement the metallographic study.
