Radiation blistering in metals and alloys

Radiation blistering in solids leads to damage and erosion of irradiated surfaces. Major parameters governing the blistering process in metals and some metallic alloys include the type of projectile and its energy, total dose, dose rate, target temperature, channeling condition of the projectile, orientation of the irradiated surface plane, and target material and microstructure. Both experimental results and models proposed for blister formation and rupture are reviewed. The blistering phenomenon is important as an erosion process in applications such as fusion reactor technology (plasma-wall interactions) and accelerator technology (erosion of components and targets). There are several methods for reducing surface erosion caused by blistering. 28 figures, 166 references