Chromium-free nickel alloys for hot sulfuric and sulfur environments

There are few adequate materials available for severe corrosion conditions, like those of the S–I thermochemical cycle. High Si, Ni-alloys have excellent corrosion resistance, especially in mineral acids, but have typically been limited by poor mechanical properties or difficult fabrication issues. The ductility of nickel silicide, Ni3Si, can be improved through a combination of micro- and macro-alloying. Nb and other minor alloying elements yield a cast alloy with excellent corrosion resistance to sulfuric acid and good mechanical properties. In this paper, efforts to optimize the alloys performance are presented along with progress toward the development of a wrought version of the material. It was found that an appropriate heat treatment provides the largest improvement in the cast Ni–Si alloy microstructure. Trials have resulted in more than a 50% reduction by the cold rolling process. This process not only increases homogenization but also results in a more uniform distribution of G-phase particles, which is beneficial for the improvements in ductility and corrosion resistance. These alloys have great potential for use in future hydrogen production as well as fossil energy combustion.