Potential of the GD-OES method in power plant component service life assessment

The GD-OES (Glow Discharge Optical Emission Spectrometry) technique is well suited to the analysis of the depth composition of even very thin layers on material surfaces. The principle of the method is explained and some illustrative examples of its application are shown. It has been demonstrated that this technique can be applied to the examination of material degradation by high-temperature corrosion and oxidation, which is an important factor affecting the service life of nuclear power plant components. (P.A.)