Abstract
The development and understanding of the mechanical properties of neutron irradiated FeCrAl alloys is becoming a critical need as FeCrAl alloys continue development for nuclear reactor applications. This study focuses on the tensile properties of neutron irradiated model FeCrAl alloys and a commercial FeCrAl alloy up to 13.8 displacements per atom (dpa) at irradiation temperatures between 320 and 382°C. Tensile tests were performed after irradiation at room temperature and at 320°C. Scanning electron microscopy of the fractured tensile specimens was also performed on a sub-set of specimens. Results showed typical radiation-hardening and embrittlement with strong composition dependencies at lower doses. At and above 7.0 dpa the mechanical properties saturated which was speculated to be the result of a change in the deformation mode of the tested specimens. The presented results suggest a strong dependence on the kinetics of the Cr-rich α' phase formation on the observed mechanical properties.
