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Acta Mechanica Sinica

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27-02-2020 | Review Paper

Theoretical models for irradiation hardening and embrittlement in nuclear structural materials: a review and perspective

Authors: Xiazi Xiao, Dmitry Terentyev, Haijian Chu, Huiling Duan

Published in: Acta Mechanica Sinica | Issue 2/2020

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Abstract

The study of irradiation hardening and embrittlement is critically important for the development of next-generation structural materials tolerant to neutron irradiation, and could dramatically affect the approach to the design of components for advanced nuclear reactors. In addition, a growing interest is observed in the field of research and development of irradiation-resistant materials. This review aims to provide an overview of the theoretical development related to irradiation hardening and embrittlement at moderate irradiation conditions achieved in recent years, which can help extend our fundamental knowledge on nuclear structural materials. After a general introduction to the irradiation effects on metallic materials, recent research progress covering theoretical modelling is summarized for different types of structural materials. The fundamental mechanisms are elucidated within a wide range of temporal and spatial scales. This review closes with the current understanding of irradiation hardening and embrittlement, and puts some perspectives deserving further study.

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Title: Theoretical models for irradiation hardening and embrittlement in nuclear structural materials: a review and perspective
Authors: Xiazi Xiao
Dmitry Terentyev
Haijian Chu
Huiling Duan
Publication date: 27-02-2020
Publisher: The Chinese Society of Theoretical and Applied Mechanics; Institute of Mechanics, Chinese Academy of Sciences
Published in: Acta Mechanica Sinica / Issue 2/2020
Print ISSN: 0567-7718
Electronic ISSN: 1614-3116
DOI: https://doi.org/10.1007/s10409-020-00931-w

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