Mechanical and microstructural properties of neutron irradiated Fe–Cr–C alloys

Abstract

Abstract Defect properties of neutron irradiated Fe–Cr–C alloys and their influence on the mechanical behavior are studied by combining mechanical tests, microstructural examination, and the results of models. It is found that the initial microstructure of these alloys, determined by the Cr and C concentrations, as well as by the thermal treatment, can account for different defect formation and distribution after neutron irradiation. On the basis of these results, a correlation between defect properties and macroscopic mechanical behavior is proposed.