Behavior mechanism and prediction models of stress corrosion cracking of stainless steels in pressurized water reactors

Stress corrosion cracking (SCC) which has long been an essential topic for alloys exposed to subcritical water systems,is an urgent issue for pressurized water reactors (PWRs). Due to the complexity of the interaction of materials, environment, and stress, the SCC mechanism of consensus and the prediction model with mechanic extensibility are unavailable. Based on reviewing the typical characteristics and critical influence factors of SCC of stainless steels, this paper systematically summarizes, compares the more mainstream cracking mechanisms, and from the perspective of empirical and deterministic methods, discusses the applicable conditions of a series of SCC prediction models with high recognition via practical data, which are of great significance for strengthening readers’ understanding of SCC critical parameters and the matching service environment of each SCC mechanism, promoting the accurate prediction of SCC behavior and cumulative damage in the pressurized water reactors.