Towards the development of radiation resistant steels: role of nano-dispersoids

In this talk, I shall present the results of our on-going studies on steels that are being carried out with a view to develop radiation resistant structural materials. The focus is on the use of nano-dispersoids in alloys towards the suppression of void formation and eventual swelling under irradiation. The examples include studies on the nucleation and growth of TiC precipitates in Ti modified austenitic steels, and investigations on nano Yttria particles in Fe - a model oxide dispersion strengthened steels. The experimental methods of ion beam irradiation and positron annihilation spectroscopy have been used to elucidate the role of minor alloying elements on swelling behaviour. Computer simulation methods encompassing ab-initio calculations, molecular dynamics and kinetic Monte Carlo simulations have been used to address the efficacy of the nanoparticles in influencing the defect processes in steels. (author)