X-ray diffraction studies of 145Â MeV proton-irradiated AlBeMet 162

AlBeMet 162 (Materion Co., formerly Brush Wellman) has been irradiated with 145 MeV protons up to 1.2 × 1020 cm−2 fluence, with irradiation temperatures in the range of 100-220 °C. Macroscopic post-irradiation evaluation on the evolution of mechanical and thermal properties was integrated with a comprehensive X-ray- diffraction study using high-energy monochromatic and polychromatic X-ray beams, which offered a microscopic view of the irradiation damage effects on AlBeMet. The study confirmed the stability of the metal-matrix composite, its resistance to proton damage, and the continuing separation of the two distinct phases, fcc aluminum and hcp beryllium, following irradiation. Furthermore, based on the absence of inter-planar distance change during proton irradiation, it was confirmed that the stacking faults and clusters on the Al (1 1 1) planes are stable, and thus can migrate from the cascade region and be absorbed at various sinks. XRD analysis of the unirradiated AlBeMet 162 showed clear change in the texture of the fcc phase with orientation especially in the Al (1 1 1) reflection which exhibits a “non-perfect” six-fold symmetry, implying lack of isotropy in the composite.