A review of microstructure evolution in zirconium alloys during irradiation

Point defect diffusion in α-Zr

Mechanisms of irradiation growth of alpha-zirconium alloys

In this chapter, the effects of neutron irradiation on zirconium alloys are described. Irradiation effects on the microstructure are first discussed, describing damage creation and point-defect evolution leading to loops formation and secondary-phase evolution under irradiation. Then, in the second part, irradiation effects on postirradiation mechanical behavior and deformation mechanisms, especially during tensile test and also after postirradiation thermal treatment or postirradiation creep tests, are given. Finally, the in-reactor deformation behavior, growth, and irradiation creep, as well as the related deformation mechanisms, are analyzed.

R.A. Murgatroyd

Papers

Irradiation growth of zirconium single crystals