Effects cascade debris and helium bubbles on the strength of aged plutonium

Journal Article · Fri Apr 04 00:00:00 UTC 2025 · Journal of Vacuum Science & Technology A

DOI: https://doi.org/10.1116/6.0004486 · OSTI ID:2585305

Wolfer, Wilhelm G. ^[1]; Jeffries, Jason R.  ^[1]

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1. Lawrence Livermore National Laboratory (LLNL), Livermore, CA (United States)

The radioactive decay of aging Pu is dominated by α-decay. This persistent α-decay produces crystalline defects in the form of dislocation loops and helium bubbles that evolve with time. Comparable defects are produced in other metallic alloys when subject to neutron irradiation, and these defects are known to modify the plastic deformation of irradiated materials. Models have been developed for these irradiated materials and validated against experimental confirmations of yield strength and the concomitant microstructural evolution. In this paper, we deploy those previously developed models and apply their mechanics to plutonium aging.

• Research Organization: Lawrence Livermore National Laboratory (LLNL), Livermore, CA (United States)
• Sponsoring Organization: USDOE National Nuclear Security Administration (NNSA)
• Grant/Contract Number: AC52-07NA27344
• OSTI ID: 2585305
• Report Number(s): LLNL--JRNL-2002752
• Journal Information: Journal of Vacuum Science & Technology A, Journal Name: Journal of Vacuum Science & Technology A Journal Issue: 3 Vol. 43; ISSN 0734-2101; ISSN 1520-8559
• Publisher: American Vacuum SocietyCopyright Statement
• Country of Publication: United States
• Language: English