RADIATION-DAMAGE AND IRRADIATION EFFECTS IN SOLID BREEDERS

Fundamental studies of radiation-induced defects and irradiation effects on selected physical and chemical properties for Li2O and gamma-LiAlO2 are reviewed. F+ centers, F aggregate centers and colloidal lithium metal centers form in Li2O. In gamma-LiAlO2, the predominant radiation-induced defects are also F+ centers. Ionic conductivity of Li2O, which reflects lithium-ion and possibly tritium transport, decreases by F+ center formation, and increases by the formation of defects which are, as yet, not precisely determined. The conductivity during irradiation was larger than that before and after irradiation. Swelling due to displacement damage and valence states of tritium in Li2O are reviewed. Fundamental studies to improve our understanding of the operation of solid breeders in a fusion-blanket environment are suggested.