Gamma radiation effects on corrosion—I. Electrochemical mechanisms for the aqueous corrosion processes of austenitic stainless steels relevant to nuclear waste disposal in tuff

The effects of gamma irradiation on the corrosion mechanisms of 304L and 316L stainless steels in groundwater from a proposed nuclear waste repository site in tuffaceous rock are presented. When gamma irradiation is initiated, corrosion potential shifts in the positive direction are observed. These potential shifts are associated with the radiation-induced production of hydrogen peroxide. The electrochemical mechanisms involved in the corrosion potential shifts, as well as the subsequent effect on pitting resistance, are considered.