Effect of β-Quenching Treatment on Oxidation Behavior of Zr-4 Alloy

It has been reported that the β-quenching, i.e., quenching from β phase temperature region, has a great effect on corrosion properties of Zr alloys. However, the relevant mechanism is not fully understood. Here, the Zr-4 alloy was chosen as a model material and the effect of β-quenching on oxidation behavior was studied. The β-quenched Zr-4 alloy exhibits a better oxidation resistance than that of the recrystallized sample after oxidation at 400 °C in air for 4-16 hrs. The change of grain orientations, i.e., the disappearance of strong (002) texture, and the formation of fine lamella grains contribute to the higher oxidation resistance of β-quenched Zr-4 alloy. The relevant mechanism was investigated in detail.