Corrosion Resistance of Cr₂O₃, ZrO₂, and Mn₃O₄ Oxide Films to Lead–Bismuth Eutectic: A Comparative Study

In this study, the stability of Cr₂O₃, ZrO₂, and Mn₃O₄ oxide films in high-temperature liquid lead–bismuth eutectic (LBE) was systematically investigated using both experimental and first principles calculation methods. The research findings indicated that Cr₂O₃ demonstrated superior structural integrity at corrosion temperatures of both 600 °C and 700 °C and displayed exceptional resistance to LBE corrosion. ZrO₂ demonstrates resistance to LBE infiltration. However, the emergence of cracks in the vicinity of the ZrO₂ layer and the metal interface undermines the protective layer’s integrity. Mn₃O₄ exhibits susceptibility to corrosion by LBE and lacks resistance to its effects. First principles calculations indicate that Pb and Bi atoms are most readily adsorbed onto the Mn₃O₄ surface, promoting the detachment of Mn atoms. The results show that the corrosion resistance of the three oxide films is ranked in the following order: Cr₂O₃ > ZrO₂ > Mn₃O₄.