Effects of neutron irradiation on physical and mechanical properties of Mo-Re alloys

The effects of neutron irradiation on mechanical strength, plasticity and electric conductivity of Mo-Re alloys are presented. Pure Mo and Mo-0.5%Re to Mo-30%Re alloys were studied. Samples were irradiated in the reactor SM-2 ( ~ 5 × 1021 n/cm2, Tirr ~ 240–330°C). Irradiation at 300°C indicates that the radiation embrittlement results in reduced strength and ductility characteristics of Mo-Re alloys. Measurement of electric resistance shows that low-temperature irradiation of Mo-alloys results in 20–30% reduced conductivity. SEM studies of fracture surfaces show that after irradiation brittle intergranular fracture takes places that correlates with an abrupt reduction of strength.