Radiation-induced changes in the structure and mechanical properties of Fe–Mo alloy under electron irradiation

Abstract

The X-ray diffraction method is used to study radiation-induced changes in the structure and phase state of a model Fe–5% Mo alloy after electron irradiation at room temperature and 400°C. The observed radiation-induced softening of the alloy is explained by a decrease in the Mo concentration in solid solution and an increase in the number of lattice defects. This conclusion is confirmed by the shift of the 200 diffraction maximum toward larger angles and its broadening. Irradiation leads to the oxidation of the alloy, and additional annealing at 400°C causes the formation of spinel Fe₂MoO₄ and alloy strengthening.