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Evolution kinetics of interstitial loops in irradiated materials: a phase-field model

Journal Article · · Modelling and Simulation in Materials Science and Engineering

Interstitial loops are one of the principal evolving defects in irradiated materials. The evolution of interstitial loops, including spatial and size distributions, affects both vacancy and interstitial accumulations in the matrix, hence, void formation and volumetric swelling. In this work, a phase-field model to simulate the growth kinetics of interstitial loops in irradiated materials during aging is developed. The diffusion of vacancies and interstitials and the elastic interaction between interstitial loops and point defects are accounted in the model. The effects of interstitial concentration, chemical potential, and elastic interaction on the growth kinetics and stability of interstitial loops are investigated in two and three dimensions. It is found that the elastic interaction enhances the growth kinetics of interstitial loops. The elastic interaction also affects the stability of a small interstitial loop adjacent to a larger loop. The model predicts linear growth rates for interstitial loops that is in agreement with the previous theoretical predictions and experimental observations.

Research Organization:
Pacific Northwest National Laboratory (PNNL), Richland, WA (US)
Sponsoring Organization:
USDOE
DOE Contract Number:
AC05-76RL01830
OSTI ID:
1033826
Report Number(s):
PNNL-SA-82810; AF5831060
Journal Information:
Modelling and Simulation in Materials Science and Engineering, Journal Name: Modelling and Simulation in Materials Science and Engineering Journal Issue: 1 Vol. 20; ISSN 0965-0393
Country of Publication:
United States
Language:
English

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