Abstract
The dc electrical conductivity of high purity, polycrystalline MgAl 2O 4 spinel of 99.5% theoretical density has been measured during irradiation by 18 MeV protons at reactor relevant ionization dose rates. The radiation-induced conductivity (RIC) at 200°C varied in a slightly sub-linear manner with dose rate. At temperatures between 250–350°C the RIC varied in a complex manner with the dose rate dependence being itself dose rate dependent. At higher temperatures the RIC reverted to an essentially linear variation with dose rate. The complex dose rate dependence is ascribed to the magnesium vacancy concentration introduced by the small Al 2O 3 excess ( MgO: Al 2 O 3 = 1:1.05) and the presence of anti-structure defects producing large concentrations of intrinsic electron and hole traps. There was no evidence that the accumulation of radiation damage influenced the details of radiation-induced conductivity and MgAl 2O 4 retained reasonable insulating properties at the highest dose rate and temperature.
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