Publications

Nanoindentation and TEM Characterization of Ion Irridiated 316L Stainless Steels

Hattar, Khalid M.; Buchheit, Thomas E.; Kotula, Paul G.; Mcginnis, Alexander; Brewer, Luke

Understanding the effects of extensive radiation damage in structural metals provides necessary insight for predicting the performance of those metals considered for application in the extreme radiation environment. Predicting mechanical performance after long term radiation exposure is of great importance to extending the life of current nuclear reactors and for developing future materials for the next generation of reactors. A combination of finite element modeling, nanoindentation, and TEM characterization were used to rapidly determine the microstructure and mechanical properties influences of ion irradiation on a standard 316L stainless steel sample. The results of this study found that ion irradiation and small scale mechanical property testing can be used to characterize extensive levels of radiation damage structure, only when significant consideration is given to ion irradiation depth, surface roughness and polishing condition, the irradiation temperature, and.many other experimental parameters. © 2012 The Minerals, Metals, & Materials Society. All rights reserved.