MeV electron-irradiation-induced structural change in the bcc phase of Zr–Hf–Nb alloy with an approximately equiatomic ratio

The microstructure and phase stability of a Zr–Hf–Nb alloy with an approximately equiatomic ratio of Zr, Hf, and Nb was investigated. A body-centered cubic (bcc) solid solution was formed in specimens produced by sputtering. MeV electron-irradiation-induced structural changes were investigated in the bcc phase of the Zr–Hf–Nb alloy using high-voltage electron microscopy (HVEM). The polycrystalline phase with a bcc structure showed high phase stability against irradiation damage, and no structural changes due to irradiation damage were observed at 298 K.

Graphical abstractFigure optionsDownload full-size imageDownload as PowerPoint slideHighlights► A bcc-phase was formed in Zr–Hf–Nb alloy with approximately equiatomic ratio of Zr, Hf, and Nb. ► The irradiation induced structural change was investigated by High Voltage Electron Microscopy (HVEM). ► The polycrystalline bcc single phase shows high phase stability against irradiation damage at 298 K.