Neutron irradiation-induced recrystallization simulation for tungsten in nuclear fusion device

• Published in: International journal of refractory metals & hard materials Vol. 121; p. 106635
• Main Authors: Yin, Chao, Zhang, Guoshuai, Wang, Zhaofan, Chen, Ze, Mao, Shifeng, Ye, M.Y.
• Format: Journal Article
• Language: English
• Published: Elsevier Ltd 01.06.2024
• Subjects: Irradiation-induced recrystallization; Nuclear fusion neutron; Plasma-facing components; Tungsten; Nuclear fusion neutron; Irradiation-induced recrystallization; Plasma-facing components; Tungsten
• ISSN: 0263-4368; 2213-3917
• DOI: 10.1016/j.ijrmhm.2024.106635

In magnetic confinement nuclear fusion devices, Tungsten (W) stands out as the most promising material for plasma-facing components, especially for divertor targets exposed to high neutron loads and high heat flux. However, the harsh operational conditions subject W undergoes significant degradation due to irradiation-induced defect production and irradiation-induced recrystallization, resulting in a modification of the original microstructure. These irradiation effects lead to a consequential deterioration in mechanical properties and component durability. This study implements a neutron irradiation-induced recrystallization (NIIR) modeling framework to quantify the recrystallization fraction in the W section of the plasma-facing components (PFCs). The simulation results reveal that the rate of neutron irradiation damage significantly impacts NIIR, leading to varying durations for achieving complete recrystallization in W at elevated temperatures. Furthermore, the half recrystallization time of W experiences a substantial reduction under neutron irradiation, resulting in a thicker recrystallized layer in W-PFCs compared to those without neutron irradiation but at the equivalent heat flux conditions. •Cluster dynamic and modified JMAK models are employed for W-PFMs neutron irradiation-induced recrystallization simulation.•Varying damage rates affect grain boundary mobility and driving force, leading to different recrystallization times.•Neutron irradiation accelerates recrystallization in the W divertor target, forming a thicker recrystallized layer.