Simplified methodology of the ultra-thin layer activation technique

Recoil implantation of 56 Co radioactive nuclei is used to measure the nanometric corrosion rate of steam generator tubes of nuclear power plants. The results show a constant corrosion rate of nickel alloy pipe (≈4 nm/month), after a short running-in period. To simplify the use of this technique and to extend its application field, a Monte Carlo simulation program (Implantation of Recoil Ions Simulation) has been developed to calculate the depth profile of the implanted nuclei. It is associated with SRIM software for the transport of particles in matter. The validity and the interest of the IRIS computer program are demonstrated throughout the mentioned application.