The Effects of Steady-State Reactor Radiation on Thin Magnetic Films

The effects of steady-state reactor radiation on thin magnetic films were studied experimentally. Radiation effects were characterized in terms of changes in the magnetic properties of films at several flux levels. The nature of changes in solid-state structure was studied by means of X-ray diffraction and electron microscopy. Changes in magnetic properties are discussed as a function of physical damage to the films. The influence of coatings applied to the films to prevent non-nuclear damage is evaluated. Radiation-induced changes are compared to changes induced by annealing similar films in air. An explanation for observed differences in the extent of damage as a function of coating material is suggested.