The effect of neon ion irradiation on tungsten for next generation fusion reactor

Abstract

Tungsten exhibits robust thermo-physical and mechanical properties in ion material interaction. It is considered as an important material of the plasma facing component for next generation fusion reactor. This material could be one of the candidates to use in the divertor region of the tokamak. With this motivation a series of experiments have been performed with a plasma focus device to study the effect of neon irradiation on tungsten in various experimental conditions like with angular variation and with number of plasma focus shots. Exposed and unirrdiated tungsten samples were analyzed subjecting to surface morphological and structural studies namely using optical microscope, scanning electron microscope, atomic force microscope, grazing incidence X-ray diffraction, Vickers hardness measurement. OM photographs are analyzed quantitatively in terms of holes and pores with angular variation and number of PF shots. Surface analyses verifies the formation of micro-cracks, bubbles, blisters, holes. X-ray diffraction pattern shows the development of compressive stress on the sample due to thermal load and formation of other phases or expanded phases.