Microstructural Features of Scales and Their Likely Influence on Creep Behaviour

Abstract

The microstructural features of scales as formed during the high temperature corrosion of metals can vary considerably. Apart from the obvious differences between scales derived from different metals, even with a given metal the microstructure of the scale is affected by factors such as metal purity and the conditions of exposure, namely the duration and temperature of oxidation and the partial pressure of the oxidant in the atmosphere. In particular variations in grain size and morphology, and in the degree and morphology, and in the degree and nature of porosity can occur; in addition in some systems precipitation of a second phase of variable morphology can take place. Some of these differing structural features in scales are discussed and illustrated. It is suggested that such variations in microstructure will considerably affect the mechanical properties of the scales in which they occur. In general few data concerning mechanical properties, in particular plastic deformation characteristics of scales have been published; furthermore little attempt has been made to assess the possible role of such variations in structure. Rather more information is, however, available from the field of ceramics, and this knowledge is critically reviewed. The usefulness and limitations of such information in relation to the interpretation of the creep behaviour of cobalt monoxide scales is illustrated.