Corrosion resistance of modified β-Eucryptite

The corrosion resistance of chemically modified β-eucryptite (Li_0.41Mg_0.035AlP_0.52Si_0.480₄) having low expansion anisotropy and a near zero coefficient of thennal expansion was evaluated. Samples were exposed to aqueous hydrochloride acid at temperatures up to 100°C and environments containing sodium sulfate up to l000°C. The corrosion resistance was characterized by dilatometry, scanning electron microscopy, X-ray diffraction, energy dispersive x-ray analysis, weight variations, and mechanical properties variations.

The results show that modified β-eucryptite is more severely corroded than commercial lithium-alumina-silicate glass-ceramics when exposed to these environments. Aqueous HCI removes AIP04 from modified β-eucryptite leaving a very porous structure. Molten salt corrodes modified β-eucryptite by penetration of sodium and sulfur which form an alkali melt under the surface. The modulus of rupture and the Young's modulus are reduced by both types of corrosion.