In tungsten plasma-facing fusion reactor components, Ta is the third most abundant element formed by transmutation (after Re and Os), yet little is known about the behaviour of W-Ta alloys under irradiation and any effects Ta might have on Re clustering in W-Re-Ta alloys. In this study, W-4.5 at.%Ta, W-2 at.% Re-1 at.%Ta andW-2 at.%Re alloys were e…
This study examines clustering and hardening in W–2 at.% Re and W–1 at.% Re–1 at.% Os alloys induced by 2 MeV W + ion irradiation at 573 and 773 K. Such clusters are known precursors to the formation of embrittling precipitates, a potentially life-limiting phenomenon in the oper- ation of fusion reactor components. Increases in hardness were …