Mechanical property measurements on ion-irradiated copper and Cu-Zr

A recently developed mechanical properties microprobe (MPM) has been used to investigate strength and elastic modulus changes in ion-irradiated copper and Cu-0.15% Zr (AMZIRC). The indenter load and its displacement are simultaneously monitored while the indentation is being made and also during unloading. The depth dependence of the ion damage was investigated using a cross-section technique. This procedure allows a direct comparison to be made of microhardness data from different irradiation depths while the indent size is held constant. The displacement damage associated with ion irradiation caused either hardening or softening, depending on the irradiation conditions and the material. (orig.)