The use of thin layer activation in cyclic high temperature corrosion studies

The principle of thin layer activation and its intrinsic properties are outlined. The use of thin layer activation for spallation studies is illustrated with examples of ongoing research within the Institute for Advanced Materials of the European Commission. It is shown that due to its intrinsic properties, thin layer activation can contribute to a greater scientific understanding of material degradation by thermal cycling and it can aid in a more reliable assessment of the service lives of technical components. (orig.)