The main objective of this RTE proposal is to use in situ dual-ion beam technique (at IVEM-Argonne National Lab) to explore the influence of helium on radiation-induced void swelling. The ultimate goal is to design advanced radiation-tolerant materials for advanced nuclear reactors. The materials to be investigated are nanovoid and nanotwinned Cu prepared by magnetron sputtering.
Novelty. Using a multi-functional sputtering system, the PI’s team can fabricate various nanostructured materials that contain a high density of nanovoids. Previous studies by the PIs have shown that the pre-existing nanovoids can enhance the radiation tolerance in nanotwinned metals. However, these nanovoids shrink rapidly under single-beam heavy ion radiation. In situ dual-beam technique will allow us to examine the stability of such nanovoids with the existence of Helium.
Major tasks in this project include 1) investigation of Helium-enhanced void nucleation and swelling; 2) The pinning effect of Helium bubbles on grain boundaries migration.
Expected period of performance: January – September 2019
The main objective of this RTE proposal is to use in situ dual-ion beam technique (at IVEM-Argonne National Lab) to explore the influence of helium on radiation-induced void swelling. The ultimate goal is to design advanced radiation-tolerant materials for advanced nuclear reactors. The materials to be investigated are nanovoid and nanotwinned Cu prepared by magnetron sputtering.
Relevance and significance. Irradiation-induced voids cause the degradation of material properties due to a volumetric swelling. It is known that Helium plays a crucial role in the swelling process, especially at elevated temperatures. This project focuses on the dual-beam radiation in nanovoid Cu to understand the Helium’s influence on the kinetics of void swelling, which will be essential for the design of radiation tolerant materials.
The proposed studies aligns well with DOE-NE agenda: “Develop new nuclear generation technologies – that foster the diversity of the domestic energy supply through public-private partnerships that are aimed in the near-term (2015) at the deployment of advanced, proliferation-resistant light water reactor and fuel cycle technologies and in the longer-term (2025) at the development and deployment of next-generation advanced reactors and fuel cycles.”
Novelty. Using a multi-functional sputtering system, the PI’s team can fabricate various nanostructured materials that contain a high density of nanovoids. Previous studies by the PIs have shown that the pre-existing nanovoids can enhance the radiation tolerance in nanotwinned metals. However, these nanovoids shrink rapidly under single-beam heavy ion radiation. In situ dual-beam technique will allow us to examine the stability of such nanovoids with the existence of Helium.
Capability. The proposed research team has expertise that covers materials design and fabrication using sputtering technique, in situ radiation and in-depth microstructure analysis. They also have a strong track record of using IVEM facility in studying radiation damage in nanostructured metals, and thus can ensure the successful delivery of key information for the evaluation and design of advanced reactor materials.