Linking Lattice Strain and Fractal Dimensions to Non‐monotonic Volume Changes in Irradiated Nuclear Graphite

Year: 2025

Type: article

Abstract: ABSTRACT Graphite's resilience to high temperatures and neutron damage makes it vital for nuclear reactors, yet irradiation alters its microstructure, degrading key properties. We used small‐ and wide‐angle X‐ray scattering to study neutron‐irradiated fine‐grain nuclear graphite (Grade G347A) across varied temperatures and fluences. Results show significant shifts in internal strain and porosity, correlating with radiation‐induced volume changes. Notably, porosity volume distribution (fractal dimensions) follows non‐monotonic volume changes, suggesting a link to the Weibull distribution of fracture stress.

Source: Interdisciplinary materials

DOI: 10.1002/idm2.70008

Authors: David J. Sprouster, Sean Fayfar, Durgesh K. Rai, Anne Campbell, Jan Ilavsky, Lance L. Snead, Boris Khaykovich

Institutions: Stony Brook University, Massachusetts Institute of Technology, Goddard Space Flight Center, NASA Earth Science, Oak Ridge National Laboratory, Argonne National Laboratory, Advanced Photon Source

Language: English

Topic: Graphite, nuclear technology, radiation studies

Subfield: Materials Chemistry

Field: Materials Science

Domain: Physical Sciences

Open Access status: gold

Estimated APC paid: $3,000

Funders: U.S. Department of Energy, Research Foundation for the State University of New York, Office of Science, Office of Nuclear Energy, Idaho Operations Office, U.S. Department of Energy, Fusion Energy Sciences, Argonne National Laboratory, Oak Ridge National Laboratory

OpenAlex ID: W4413141587