Irradiation-Induced Phase Transformation in Zirconia

Abstract

As a result of fast neutron bombardment, monoclinic ZrO2 is transformed into the cubic phase normally stable only above 1900°C. It is suggested that the unique temperature-structure behavior in the zirconia system lends itself to this transition in a manner whereby two possible mechanisms may be operative. Stresses acting about trapped interstitial atoms and thermal spike effects are presented as the possible mechanisms.