RADIATION EFFECTS IN BERYLLIUM USED FOR PLASMA PROTECTION

This paper reviews the literature on beryllium, emphasizing the effect s of irradiation on essential properties. Swelling and embrittlement e xperiments as a function of irradiation temperature and dose, and as a function of neutron spectrum are described, and the results are quant ified, where possible. Effects of impurity content are also reported, from which optimum composition specifications can be defined. Microstr uctural information has also been obtained to elucidate the processes controlling the property changes. The available information indicates that beryllium diverters can be expected to embrittle quickly and may need frequent replacement.