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Taking into account the operational constraints and metal compatibility requirements for anodization in water-cooled reactors mentioned earlier, aluminum alloy is the most suitable metal for such anodization. Nuclear performance suitability: Aluminum alloys have a low thermal neutron absorption cross-section, suffer minimal radiation damage, and their corrosion stability remains virtually unaffected after irradiation; these properties meet the basic requirements for core structures in water-cooled reactors. Aluminum has been used as a material for core structures in water-cooled research reactors built in China since early on. The anodization process is well-developed: The aluminum alloy anodization technology is sophisticated, enabling the formation of a high-hardness oxide film on the surface that consists of a dense barrier layer and a porous layer. This film offers excellent corrosion resistance, wear resistance, and insulating properties, and can effectively address the issue of localized corrosion of aluminum in water-cooled environments. Strong compatibility with operating conditions: Under the normal operating conditions of water-cooled reactors, where temperatures are below 200°C, anodized aluminum alloys can operate stably over a long period of time, fully meeting the temperature requirements of most water-cooled reactors. Their overall cost is much lower than that of other alternative metals such as zirconium alloys and titanium alloys.