Within the steam generator(s) proper, temperature and pressure influence corrosion, and in particular affect reactions underneath iron oxide deposits on waterwall tubes and other boiler internals.

Alkali metals can react explosively with water and it is textbook knowledge that this vigorous behaviour results from heat release, steam formation and ignition of the hydrogen gas that is produced.

The spectacular reaction of alkali metals with water was poorly understood — despite being a staple of chemistry classes. It’s the classic piece of chemical tomfoolery: take a lump of sodium ...