Effect of hot rolling treatment on microstructure, mechanical, and corrosion properties of Zr–Sn–Co ternary alloys

The microstructure, mechanical properties, and corrosion resistance of as-cast Zr–Sn–Co ternary alloys have been investigated in this experiment. The properties of as-cast Zr–1.5Sn–xCo (x = 0, 2.5, 5, 7.5, and 10 at.%) ternary alloys were investigated, and the alloy composition exhibiting the best comprehensive performance was identified. Subsequently, the chosen alloys were subjected to hot rolling treatment. The microstructure of the alloys in the rolled state was analyzed using the optical microscope, X-ray diffractometer, and scanning electron microscope. The mechanical properties of the alloys were analyzed using room temperature compression tests and microhardness tests, while the corrosion properties of the alloy were investigated through electrochemical testing. The results show that the strength of as-cast Zr–1.5Sn–Co ternary alloy increases significantly with the increase in Co content. The incorporation of Co element makes the corrosion resistance of as-cast Zr–1.5Sn–Co alloy increase significantly. The hot rolling treatment has minimal effect on enhancing the corrosion resistance of Zr–1.5Sn–2.5Co alloy. However, the mechanical properties of Zr–1.5Sn–2.5Co alloy after rolling treatment are significantly enhanced. The alloy exhibits the highest strength and hardness at a rolling temperature of 600 °C and exhibits the best plasticity at a rolling temperature of 800 °C.