Observation of c-component dislocation structures formed in pure Zr and Zr-base alloy by self-ion accelerator irradiation

The microstructures of pure Zr and Zr-base alloy (Zircaloy-2) irradiated with Zr ions (self-ions) were studied by transmission electron microscopy. It was found that the c-component dislocation structures formed in neutron-irradiated Zircaloy-2 can also be obtained by self-ion irradiation. This technique can be used to simulate neutron irradiation and is thus expected to deepen our understanding of irradiation damage in pure Zr and Zr-base alloys.