| About this Abstract |
| Meeting |
Materials in Nuclear Energy Systems (MiNES) 2021
|
| Symposium
|
Materials in Nuclear Energy Systems (MiNES) 2021
|
| Presentation Title |
Defect Cluster Configurations and Mobilities in α-zirconium: Implications for Breakaway Irradiation Growth |
| Author(s) |
Jose F. March-Rico, Brian D. Wirth |
| On-Site Speaker (Planned) |
Jose F. March-Rico |
| Abstract Scope |
A key component necessary for the predictive modeling of irradiation growth strains is a detailed understanding of defect cluster configurations and their expected modes of transport. In this work, we use a modern interatomic potential published in 2020 (the BMD19 potential) to analyze the preferred structures and mobilities of SIA and vacancy clusters. We find that small SIA clusters form configurations that are contained entirely within a single basal plane and, consequentially, migrate exclusively in 2-D within the basal plane. Large clusters form perfect dislocation loops and migrate rapidly in 1-D. Conversely, small vacancy clusters migrate either quasi-isotropically or with a preference for migration along the c-axis; this is in stark contrast to the considerable anisotropy of the monovacancy. Therefore, the inherent difference in the anisotropy of diffusion of defect clusters, rather than point defects, will be a critical component for the accurate modeling of microstructural evolution in irradiated zirconium. |
| Proceedings Inclusion? |
Undecided |