VANADIUM-LITHIUM IN-PILE LOOP FOR COMPREHENSIVE TESTS OF VANADIUM ALLOYS AND MULTIPURPOSE COATINGS

The reliable information on design and material properties of self-coo led Li-Li blanket and liquid metal divertor under neutron radiation co nditions can be obtained using the concept of combined technological a nd material in-pile tests in a vanadium-lithium loop. The method of in -pile loop tests includes studies of vanadium-base alloys resistance, weld resistance under mechanical stress, multipurpose coating formatio n processes and coatings' resistance under the following conditions: h igh temperature (600-700 degrees C), lithium velocities up to 10 m/s, lithium with controlled concentration of impurities and technological additions, a neutron load of 0.4-0.5 MW/m(2) and level of irradiation doses up to 5 dpa. The design of such an in-pile loop is considered. T he experimental data on corrosion and compatibility with lithium, mech anical properties and welding technology of the vanadium alloys, metho ds of coatings formation and its radiation tests in lithium environmen t in the BOR-60 reactor (fast neutron fluence up to 10(26) m(-2), irra diation temperature range of 500-523 degrees C) are presented and anal yzed as a basis for such loop development.