High temperature radiation damage phenomena in complex alloys

The swelling behavior of structural alloys such as the austenitic stainless steels is closely linked to precipitation behavior during irradiation. Recent experimental evidence is reviewed which illustrates the complexity of this interaction. It is suggested that processes associated with the trapping of helium atoms and point defects at particle-matrix interfaces and the inhibition of climb by precipitation are important factors in determining swelling behavior. These phenomena together with the subject of phase stability in a radiation environment represent important topics for further theoretical and experimental work. (orig.)