Damjan Požun

Mr. Damjan Požun


Research Focus & Metrics

Academic Career Length

1Year (2026-Present)

(Calculated once Scilit publication data is synced: current year − year of first publication + 1)

Representative Publications

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18 September 2026 in Metals
Verified
Journal Article
Open access
PDF file
Jaka BurjaJaka Burja
Jaka Burja
Borut ŽužekBorut Žužek
Borut Žužek
TDTjasa Danevcic
Tjasa Danevcic
DSDavid Stopar
David Stopar
DPDamjan Požun
Damjan Požun
Barbara Šetina BatičBarbara Šetina Batič
Barbara Šetina Batič
This study investigated the root cause of severe corrosion damage observed on G-X4CrNi13-4 martensitic stainless steel turbine blades at the Brežice hydroelectric power plant on the Sava River in Slovenia. The investigation employed a comprehensive analytical approach, including on-site visual inspections, non-destructive testing with a portable microscope (Struers, Ballerup, Denmark), X-ray fluorescence spectroscopy (Thermo Fisher Scientific, Waltham, MA, USA), and 3D topographical mapping (Bruker Alicona, Graz, Austria). Laboratory analyses utilized scanning electron microscopy (ZEISS, Oberkochen, Germany) and energy-dispersive X-ray spectroscopy (EDAX, Pleasanton, CA, USA) to examine surface deposits, biofilms, and corrosion products, complemented by physical and chemical water quality assessments. A visual inspection revealed a dense layer of biological deposits, approximately 0.3 mm thick, with stochastic pitting damage located beneath the biofilm. The analytical results confirmed that the blade material met the specifications; however, EDS analysis (EDAX, Pleasanton, CA, USA) revealed significant localized manganese enrichment within the pits (~1.4 wt%) and in the biofilm (>10 wt%). Although water analysis showed relatively low manganese concentrations (7–18 µg/L), these values may be sufficient to support the metabolic activity of manganese-oxidizing microorganisms. Historical hydrological data suggest that extreme drought conditions in 2022, stagnant water, and elevated temperatures facilitated the attachment of microorganisms and the formation of a corrosive biofilm. These findings highlight the impact of changing environmental conditions and low-flow periods on the integrity of stainless steel components in hydroelectric facilities.