Abstract
Yttrium ions of energy 0.5MeV were implanted to modify the surface of Inconel 600 by using a Pelletron Accelerator. Microstructural and XRD studies reveal austenitic nickel solid solution (γ) and intergranular carbides. The surfaces were electrochemically investigated by potentiodynamic polarization, Electrochemical impedance spectroscopy and Mott–Schottky techniques in acidic saline solution. The results indicate that the yttrium ions implantation significantly reduces the intragranular pitting as compared to the intergranular pitting tendency of the alloy. The low passive current density, minor pseudo-capacitive behavior and high flat band potential with p-type nature of passive film limit the electrochemical dissolution of the yttrium implanted Inconel.
► The surface of Inconel 600 was modified by 0.5MeV yttrium ions at room temperature. ► Electrochemical testing of the material was conducted before and after irradiation. ► Potentiodynamic polarization, EIS and Mott–Schottky techniques were used. ► Ion implantation greatly improves the intragranular pitting resistance of the alloy.