Microstructure development in neutron irradiated tungsten alloys

Abstract

The aim of this work is to investigate the influence of neutron irradiation condition, especially temperature, on irradiation hardening and microstructure development in irradiated tungsten-rhenium (W-Re) alloys. Neutron irradiations were carried out in JOYO at the range of 400 to 750°C, up to 1.54 dpa. Micro Vickers hardness tests and micro structural observations using a TEM were performed. Irradiation hardening of W-Re alloys irradiated at 538°C were clearly larger than those irradiated at other temperatures. Fine voids and fine needle-or plate-like precipitates were observed in pure W and W-Re alloys irradiated at 538°C, respectively, with high number density. The fine complex microstructure seems to be the cause of the characteristic irradiation hardening. © 2011 The Japan Institute of Metals.