Synergistic sputtering properties of binary alloys

Conference · Sun Jan 01 04:00:00 EST 1984

OSTI ID:6532244

Krauss, A R; DeWald, A B; Gruen, D M; Lam, N Q

We have found that dilute concentrations of lithium in copper produce surfaces which are nearly pure lithium when heated and subject to irradiation. In order to better understand the experimental results, we have modeled the Cu-Li system using a modified version of the TRIM computer code and an alloy segregation program developed by N.Q. Lam. The TRIM code calculates the sputtering yield and depth of origin of the sputtered atoms for materials in which the composition varies from one atomic layer to the next and the segregation program uses these sputtering yields to trace the evolution of the concentration profile. The initial result of sputtering is to preferentially deplete the surface species. Continued irradiation, however, creates a subsurface region of high displacement damage. In the Cu-Li alloy, lithium moves very rapidly through this region, resulting in subsurface lithium enrichment. The enriched region broadens and eventually reaches the surface. The exact effect on the lithium concentration in the first two atomic layers depends on the temperature, damage profile, and particle flux. Results of the calculation are presented, along with a discussion of their implications for fusion reactor materials.

• Research Organization: Argonne National Lab., IL (USA); Georgia Inst. of Tech., Atlanta (USA)
• DOE Contract Number: W-31109-ENG-38
• OSTI ID: 6532244
• Report Number(s): CONF-840534-2; ON: DE84017493
• Country of Publication: United States
• Language: English

Related Subjects

36 MATERIALS SCIENCE
360106 -- Metals & Alloys-- Radiation Effects
70 PLASMA PHYSICS AND FUSION TECHNOLOGY
700209* -- Fusion Power Plant Technology-- Component Development & Materials Testing
ALLOYS
COMPUTERIZED SIMULATION
COPPER ALLOYS
LITHIUM ALLOYS
MATERIALS
PHYSICAL RADIATION EFFECTS
RADIATION EFFECTS
SIMULATION
SPUTTERING
THERMONUCLEAR REACTOR MATERIALS