Small-angle neutron scattering from CuCrZr coupons and components.
F Schoofs1, S King2, A J Cackett1
1United Kingdom Atomic Energy Authority, Culham Science Centre, Abingdon OX14 3DB, United Kingdom.
Journal of Applied Crystallography
|October 20, 2021
Summary
Small-angle neutron scattering (SANS) effectively analyzed copper-chromium-zirconium (CuCrZr) fusion reactor components. This method confirmed manufacturing and testing had minimal impact on microstructural properties.
Area of Science:
- Materials Science
- Nuclear Engineering
- Neutron Scattering Physics
Background:
- Fusion reactor components require robust materials like CuCrZr.
- Understanding the microstructure of CuCrZr is crucial for component integrity.
- Microscopic techniques provide detailed but localized microstructural data.
Purpose of the Study:
- To analyze the microstructural state of CuCrZr material using SANS.
- To evaluate the impact of heat treatments and manufacturing processes on CuCrZr.
- To assess the effects of high-heat-flux exposure on fusion reactor components.
Main Methods:
- Small-angle neutron scattering (SANS) was employed for microstructural analysis.
- CuCrZr samples included reference material, manufacturing mock-ups, and heat-flux-exposed mock-ups.
- Data was collected at a millimetre scale with minimal surface preparation.
Main Results:
- SANS data correlated well with existing microscopic-scale characterization data.
- Manufacturing methods and high-heat-flux testing showed minimal influence on microstructural properties.
- The study validated the suitability of current treatments for scaled-up reactor components.
Conclusions:
- SANS is a viable technique for millimetre-scale microstructural analysis of CuCrZr.
- The microstructural integrity of CuCrZr is maintained through controlled manufacturing and testing.
- Findings support the use of CuCrZr in demanding fusion reactor environments.
