About this Abstract |
| Meeting |
2027 TMS Annual Meeting & Exhibition
|
| Symposium
|
Spectroscopic Methods and Analysis for Nuclear Energy Related Materials
|
| Presentation Title |
Linking Atomic Structure to Engineering Performance in Refractory Materials for Fusion and Fission |
| Author(s) |
David Sprouster, Jiao Li, Kent Christian, Leyla Yanmaz, Elyce Milligan, Eden Estes-Lumpkin, Jarrett Moon, Takaaki Koyanagi, Weicheng Zhong, Yutai Katoh, Steve Zinkle, Lance Snead, Daniel Winklehner, Nick Brown |
| On-Site Speaker (Planned) |
David Sprouster |
| Abstract Scope |
Advanced fusion and fission energy systems require refractory materials capable of maintaining structural integrity under extreme combinations of neutron irradiation, energetic particles, and high temperatures. This presentation highlights recent advances in understanding the degradation and performance of tungsten and tungsten-based ultra-high-temperature ceramics (UHTCs) through complementary structural, thermophysical, and mechanical characterization. Synchrotron X-ray diffraction, X-ray absorption spectroscopy, and laboratory-based techniques are used to quantify irradiation- and thermally induced changes in crystal structure, phase stability, nanoprecipitate evolution, thermal conductivity, fracture resistance, and microstructural stability. Results from neutron-irradiated tungsten alloys are compared with emerging W-based UHTCs and advanced carbides developed for both fusion plasma-facing components and targets for accelerator-driven systems. Together, these studies identify the atomic- and microstructural mechanisms governing radiation tolerance and property evolution while demonstrating how integrated, multiscale characterization can accelerate the design, optimization, and qualification of next-generation refractory materials for extreme nuclear environments. |
| Proceedings Inclusion? |
Planned: |
| Keywords |
High-Temperature Materials, Characterization, Nuclear Materials |