THE BEHAVIOUR OF HELIUM IN IRRADIATED BERYLLIUM
Under neutron irradiation beryllium metal undergoes nuclear reactions that produce helium. Studies, using electron microscopy and electrical resistivity techniques, of the nucleation and growth of the helium into gas bubbles, which occur at elevated temperatures, are described. It is shown that the size and distribution of the bubbles depends to a very marked extent on material history as well as on neutron dose and temperature and it is suggested that nucleation of bubbles occurs preferentially at second phase precipitates. The distribution of the precipitate then determines the scale of nucleation and the subsequent bubble distribution. The mechanical property changes that occur on neutron irradiation are summarized and interpreted in terms of the conclusions on the distribution of helium. (auth)
- Research Organization:
- Australian Atomic Energy Commission Research Establishment, Lucas Heights, Sydney
- NSA Number:
- NSA-17-041510
- OSTI ID:
- 4690371
- Report Number(s):
- AAEC/TM-188
- Journal Information:
- J. Australian Inst. Metals, Journal Name: J. Australian Inst. Metals Vol. Vol: 8
- Country of Publication:
- Country unknown/Code not available
- Language:
- English
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