The effect of fast neutron irradiation on the compressive stress-strain relationships of graphite

M. Birch, D. J. Bacon

    Research output: Contribution to journalArticlepeer-review

    Abstract

    A study of the effects of fast neutron irradiation on the mechanical properties of polycrystalline graphite is reported. Irradiation to a maximum dose of 1.14 × 1019 n/cm2 at ∼ 50°C increased the Young's modulus by 140%. The linearity of the compressive stress-strain curve increased and the hysteresis losses decreased. The fracture stress doubled, whilst the fracture strain decreased by ~24%. Measurements of the total energy absorbed in compression indicated an average increase in the energy required for failure after irradiation. A constant elastic strain to failure criterion was found to be applicable for these irradiation conditions. Upon subsequent thermal annealing the Young's modulus decreased and had almost reached its unirradiated value by 400°C. The fracture stress also decreased towards its unirradiated value and the hysteresis losses increased. © 1983.
    Original languageEnglish
    Pages (from-to)491-496
    Number of pages5
    JournalCarbon
    Volume21
    Issue number5
    Publication statusPublished - 1983

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