CHAPTER 1 Thermodynamics and Kinetics of the High Temperature Oxidation of Stainless Steels

Abstract

This chapter introduces stainless steels and their classification for the high temperature applications. The enabling theories for the high temperature corrosion i.e. thermodynamics and kinetics are further addressed. The basic concept of thermodynamics is given and the stability of the formation of thermal oxide on stainless steel is exemplified. Types of defect in the oxide and Fick’s first law for the diffusion of defect though the oxide are introduced. Oxidation kinetics is explained with the emphasis on the derivation of the parabolic rate law.