VANADIUM-BASE ALLOYS FOR FUSION-REACTOR APPLICATIONS - A REVIEW

This paper presents a review of the structural material requirements, a summary of the materials data base for selected vanadium-base alloys with emphasis on V-15Cr-5Ti alloy, and a comparison of projected performance characteristics compared to other candidate alloys. Critical research and development needs are defined. Since mechanical strength is retained at relatively high temperatures, higher operating temperatures are projected than for austenitic or ferritic steels. The refractory metals, including vanadium, exhibit good corrosion resistance in purified liquid metals. The vanadium alloys also exhibit lower parasitic neutron absorption leading to better tritium breeding performance, lower bulk nuclear heating rates, and lower helium generation rates compared to the steels. Limited data from moderate fluence neutron irradiations (fast breeder reactor) and high-damage level ion irradiations indicate good radiation damage resistance. Major concerns relate to cost, reactivity with oxygen/air, and the limited data base. Because of corrosion/compatibility considerations, the vanadium alloys offer greater promise for liquid metal breeder concepts than for solid breeder concepts.