Results of the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) Coordinated Research Programs on Irradiation Effects on Advanced Pressure Vessel Steels

Final results of a multinational program to study the possible levels of embrittlement of steels of recent production are reviewed with clear evidence of high radiation resistance when specifications are carefully controlled. Steels from France, Germany, and Japan were studied in selected laboratories of eight nations. Besides comparative results on these steels as a function of the level of neutron exposure, results were obtained on effects of different temperatures, on fracture mechanics test results, and on mechanisms of radiation embrittlement. A third phase of the effort, which was approved in December 1983, is aimed at enhancing surveillance programs and is described.