A photocatalytic substance having the properties of an n-type semiconductor is
deposited on a surface of a metal base made of a stainless steel or Inconel. When
necessary, the hydrogen concentration of the reactor water is increased. A current
produced by the photocatalytic substance when the same is irradiated with light
or radioactive rays in a nuclear reactor flows through the metal base to reduce
corrosion current. When necessary, the photocatalytic substance is provided on
its surface with at least one of Pt, Rh, Ru and Pd.