AbstractStructure of lithium-lead eutectic, have been studied by optical and electron microscopy methods as well as by X-ray structure analysis. The lithium-lead eutectic structure consists of lithium solution in lead, various intermetallic LiPb compounds and LiPbPb. During reactor irradiation the release of tritium from the eutectic in the form of HT or T2 is negligible. The amount of helium generated by the n, α reaction is significantly higher. During reactor irradiation the eutectic structure has been modified. The materials swells in consequence of helium gas bubbles formation. Swelling increases after post-irradiation annealing. The radionuclid composition and its specific activity in irradiated eutectics in general correspond to the concentration of impurities in the original material.
Formation and properties of radiation-induced defects and radiolysis products in lithium orthosilicate
Helium content and induced swelling of neutron irradiated beryllium