Calculational evaluation of radiation induced deformation

A calculational evaluation method has been developed to predict the deformation induced by irradiation, based on a computer simulation of point defect kinetics under stress. Linear stress dependence and similar total creep rate were predicted for both SA and CW materials of austenitic stainless steel at medium to low stresses, in accordance with the reported light-ion irradiation creep results. Low temperature irradiation creep was explained by the transient behavior of point defect kinetics, and inclusion of the transient climb-glide model improved the prediction. Irradiation induced stress relaxation in a light-water fission reactor condition was calculated for Inconel X-750, and it was revealed to be very significant. (author)