Nuclear Engineering ETDs

Publication Date

Spring 5-16-2026

Abstract

The plasma facing materials (PFMs) within fusion reactors, such as the divertor, must be able to withstand high temperature (>1000 K) for extended durations of time, in addition to extreme flux from neutrons, helium (He) ash, and neutral species such as deuterium and tritium. These materials must withstand these conditions while maintaining their selected mechanical properties, minimal sputter yield, and low fuel retention. In recent years refractory high entropy alloys (RHEAs) have been investigated due to their improved mechanical and irradiation-resistant properties when compared to pure W, the current material for PFMs. In this work RHEAs have undergone fusion relevant He implantations. Investigated herein is the helium induced surface nanostructuring and elemental segregation of RHEAs, one of the concerns for these new PFMs.

Keywords

Plasma facing materials, Fusion materials, Helium Implantation, Fuzz, Nanostructuring

Document Type

Thesis

Language

English

Degree Name

Nuclear Engineering

Level of Degree

Masters

First Committee Member (Chair)

Eric Lang

Second Committee Member

Osman Angeroglu

Third Committee Member

Adrian Brearley

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