Corrosion of titanium diboride in molten FLiNaK(eut)

Pure and enriched titanium dibromide (TiB2) samples (prepared by hot isostatic pressing) with different mole ratios of Ni and Ta were investigated in contact with molten eutectic salt (FLiNaK(eut); LiF/NaF/KF 42.5 mole %: 11.5 mole %: 42.0 mole %) at 600°C. Corrosion resistance of the materials was studied, the mass losses and depths of corrosion were calculated, and sample surfaces were investigated by scanning electron microscopy-energy dispersive X-ray spectroscopy (SEM-EDX). Nickel addition decreased the corrosion resistance of TiB2. Simultaneous additions of both elements, Ni and Ta, as well as the addition of Ta only showed reducing effect on grain formation and they increased the corrosion resistance which is highest in the last case.