Irradiation of beryllium at elevated temperatures. Part II irradiation of RIG X-74 in HIFAR

Abstract

Beryllium metal specimens fabricated by various routes were examined after irradiation to fast neutron doses of 5.5 x 1020 to 9 x 1020 nvt at temperatures of 450, 550, and 650ºC. The results were in general agreement with those reported previously for similar material irradiated to lower doses. Density changes of any significance were observed only at 650ºC. Serious loss of high temperature ductility occurred in all materials and was again attributed to helium bubble formation at grain boundaries. Material fabricated by hot pressing and extrusion showed superior properties, both before and after irradiation, to material prepared by loose sintering and extrusion.