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Molten salts

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Definition: Molten salts are melted inorganic salts used as heat-transfer, reaction or heat-treatment media at elevated temperatures. Typical systems are based on nitrates, chlorides or carbonates. They are characterised by high heat capacity and thermal stability.

Practical relevance: Applications are found in heat treatment, solar thermal energy or the chemical process industry. Molten salts can be highly corrosive, particularly towards unalloyed or low-alloy steels. Temperature range, oxygen content, impurities and material resistance are assessed. Suitable materials or coatings are decisive for plant integrity.

Decision-making perspectives:

  • Technical decision-makers: Selection of corrosion-resistant materials and monitoring of the salt chemistry.
  • Purchasing/project management: Specification of suitable material grades and testing requirements.
  • Science: Investigation of high-temperature corrosion and diffusion processes.
  • Insurance/law: Assessment of corrosion damage and compliance with technical codes and standards.

Typical testing or verification methods: High-temperature corrosion tests, metallography, weight-loss measurement, materials analysis.

FAQ:

  • Why are molten salts corrosive?
  • Molten salts can destabilise protective layers and promote electrochemical reactions at high temperatures.
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