The influence of neutron irradiation in FFTF on the microstructural and microchemical development of Mo–41Re at 470–730 °C

Specimens of Mo–41 wt% Re irradiated in the fast flux test facility (FFTF) experience significant and non-monotonic changes in density that arise first from radiation-induced segregation, leading to non-equilibrium phase separation, and second by progressive transmutation of Re to Os. As a consequence the density of Mo–41Re initially decreases and then increases thereafter. Beginning as a single-phase solid solution of Re and Mo, irradiation of Mo–41 wt% Re over a range of temperatures (470–730 °C) to 28–96 dpa produces a high density of thin platelets of a hexagonal close-packed (hcp) phase identified as a solid solution of Re, Os and possibly a small amount of Mo. These hcp precipitates are thought to form in the alloy matrix as a consequence of strong radiation-induced segregation to Frank loops. Grain boundaries also segregate Re to form the hcp phase, but the precipitates are much bigger and more equiaxed in shape. Although not formed at lower dose, continued irradiation at 730 °C leads to the co-formation of late-forming chi-phase, an equilibrium phase that then competes with the preexisting hcp phase for rhenium.