Technological Impact of Microstructural Evolution During Irradiation

• Published in: Journal of nuclear materials Vol. 205; pp. 1 - 15
• Main Authors: Eyre, B L, Matthews, J R
• Format: Journal Article
• Language: English
• Published: 28.09.1992
• ISSN: 0022-3115

Neutron irradiation produces a wide range of effects that must be taken into account in both the design and operation of reactors. Direct measurements of the mechanical properties and dimensional changes of materials from operating reactors are important in assessing the potential life of components, but without an understanding of the underlying processes undue conservatism is inevitable. Microstructural analysis has proved an invaluable aid to this understanding and the construction of models of material behaviour. The paper emphasises the need to carry out microstructural studies on real materials as well as model alloys, because of the complexity of the internal structures and the important role of impurities and minor alloying elements. The embrittlement of reactor pressure vessel steels, void swelling of fast reactor components, irradiation sensitisation of stainless steels and the growth of zirconium alloys are taken as examples of how microstructural analysis has played a vital role in nuclear technology.