Purpose: The proposed research aims to determine the expediency of surface treatment
of vanadium alloys of V-Cr and V-Ti systems due to irradiation of their surfaces with low-
temperature nitrogen plasma using plasma torch NO-01.
Design/methodology/approach: The investigation of microstructure and X-ray
fluorescence analysis (XRF) of the samples were performed using an electron microscope
TESCAN Vega3. The microhardness (Vickers hardness) of the samples was measured
before and after surface treatment. The study of corrosive properties of the surface layers
was performed by an electrochemical impedance spectroscopy (EIS) method. Corrosion
damages were identified using impedance dependences.
Findings: The microstructure of the surface layers of the V-8Ti, V-15Cr, and V-35Cr alloys in
the initial state and after plasma treatment have been investigated. The chemical composition
of the surface layers is determined and comparative measurements of the microhardness
of these alloys are carried out. Corrosion-electrochemical properties (corrosion potentials,
electrochemical impedance spectroscopy and constructed potential-dynamic polarization
curves) of investigated alloys after treatment with nitrogen plasma are evaluated.
Research limitations/implications: The results obtained using laboratory samples
should be checked at the conditions of power equipment operation.
Practical implications: This treatment has advantages over other methods of surface
engineering since it provides strong surface plastic deformation and the possibility of
formation of secondary phases resulting in increases in surface hardness and corrosion
resistance.
Originality/value: Vanadium alloys have significant advantages over other structural
materials due to their high thermal conductivity and swelling resistance, high strength and
plasticity up to temperatures of 700-800°C, and good weldability.
Correlation between Microstructural Change and Irradiation Hardening Behavior of He-Irradiated V–Cr–Ti Alloys with Low Ti Addition
