Nano-cavities observed in a 316SS PWR Flux Thimble Tube Irradiated to 33 and 70 dpa
The radiation-induced microstructure of a cold-worked 316SS flux thimble tube from an operating pressurized water reactor (PWR) was examined. Two irradiated conditions, 33 dpa at 290ºC and 70 dpa at 315ºC were examined by transmission electron microscopy. The original dislocation network had completely disappeared and was replaced by fine dispersions of Frank loops and small nano-cavities at high densities. The latter appear to be bubbles containing high levels of helium and hydrogen. An enhanced distribution of these nano-cavities was found at grain boundaries and may play a role in the increased susceptibility of the irradiated 316SS to intergranular failure of specimens from this tube during post-irradiation slow strain rate testing in PWR water conditions.
- Research Organization:
- Pacific Northwest National Lab. (PNNL), Richland, WA (United States)
- Sponsoring Organization:
- USDOE
- DOE Contract Number:
- AC05-76RL01830
- OSTI ID:
- 953359
- Report Number(s):
- PNNL-SA-63624; AT6020100
- Journal Information:
- Journal of Nuclear Materials, 384(3):249-255, Journal Name: Journal of Nuclear Materials, 384(3):249-255
- Country of Publication:
- United States
- Language:
- English
Similar Records
Testing of a prototype PWR design gamma thermometer for use as a local power monitor in the thimble tube of a nuclear reactor
The effect of oversized solute additions on the microstructure of 316SS irradiated with 5 MeV Ni++ ions or 3.2 MeV protons