MODIFICATION OF THE ALPHA-FE SURFACE USING A LOW-ENERGY HIGH-CURRENT ELECTRON-BEAM

Using nuclear-physical and physical methods, we investigate the modifi cation process along the penetration depth of a low energy high curren t electron beam. The analysis of the defect structure shows vacancy cl usters (divacancies, trivacancies, loops) and an increased dislocation density in this modified layer. Computer calculations show that the t hickness of the melted layer increases with the energy flow density an d that the energy flow density determines the boundaries of the direct heat attack of a high current electron beam. The increased hardness o f the modified layer is related to the increased dislocation density.