Effect of Pressure Resistance Welded Molybdenum Alloy’s Response to Helium Ion Irradiation

Charit – University of Idaho

Research Overview

The overarching goal is to explore and understand the irradiation response of pressure resistance welding (PRW) technology on two molybdenum-based materials: commercially pure molybdenum and an oxide (La₂O₃) dispersion strengthened molybdenum alloy, MoLa. The project aims to understand the effect of helium ion irradiation on the microstructural, microchemical and mechanical properties of these materials.

There has been significant interest in the potential use of molybdenum-based materials among high melting refractory metals/alloys to produce fuel elements for the nuclear thermal rocket engine as well as accident-tolerant fuel cladding applications in advanced light water reactors. The benefits of molybdenum include its high melting point, high thermal conductivity, elevated temperature mechanical properties, and excellent corrosion resistance against liquid metals and aggressive environments.

Student Research Experience

The student will have the unique opportunity to learn about the potential use of refractory metals in terrestrial and extra-terrestrial nuclear reactors, and will participate in hands-on characterization of ion irradiated samples and data analysis. They will gain hands-on experience in scanning electron microscopy, energy dispersive spectroscopy and nanoindentation during the project period.

They will also have the opportunity to observe operation of a high resolution transmission electron microscope by an instrument scientist. Near the end of the project, the student will present findings in microstructure-properties correlations via a presentation.

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