Electropolishing and Passivation for the Nuclear Industry

Electropolishing and passivation have long been used to prepare stainless steel for service in the nuclear industry. The improved corrosion resistance which is achieved by electropolishing and stainless steel passivation is crucial in assuring the performance of the material once in service. Due to the improved microscopic surface texture and the reduction in total surface area, electropolishing is effective in reducing the buildup of radioactive contaminates and eases decontamination.