MSE Distinguished Seminar Series: Prof. Suraj Persaud

Title: Understanding Corrosion Phenomena Relevant to Nuclear Applications: A Nanoscale Approach

Speaker: Professor Suraj Persaud (Queen’s University, Department of Mechanical and Materials Engineering)

When: Nov 14 (1-2PM)

Where: Lassonde Mining Building (MB) Room 128

Abstract: Corrosion and materials degradation significantly impacts the entire life cycle
of nuclear power systems, including current operating nuclear plants, design of novel
advanced small modular reactors (SMRs), and long-term storage of nuclear waste. This
presentation will provide an overview of key research areas in each of these important
topics, particularly highlighting recent advances made using novel experimental methods
coupled with advanced microscopy techniques. Following this, a recently developed
quantitative micro-nano approach to understanding corrosion in nuclear power systems
will be outlined using the example of materials degradation in steam generator alloys.
Specifically, stress corrosion cracking (SCC) in Ni- and Fe-based alloys in high
temperature (280 °C to 340 °C) alkaline and caustic environments containing lead (Pb).
Detailed nanoscale characterization of SCC is used to develop mechanistic
understanding. This knowledge is then applied to identify potential precursors to Pb-alkaline and caustic SCC of steam generator alloys. The ability to identify SCC
precursors, which precede the onset of SCC initiation, enables the exciting opportunity to
potentially develop proactive mitigation strategies prior to the onset of engineering-level
degradation