Papers by Author: J.M. Chen

Abstract: V-4Cr-4Ti alloy is an attractive candidate low activation structural material for nuclear fusion reactors. The properties of V-4Cr-4Ti during its operation strongly depend on initial microstructure, especially size and density of Ti-rich precipitates and their interaction with dislocations. This paper focuses on the effects of the precipitate states and other microstructural variables on mechanical properties of V-4Cr-4Ti alloys and the potential methods to improve the properties by microstructural control, based on Transmission Electron Microscopy.

Abstract: Potential enhancement of mechanical properties of V-4Cr-4Ti by controlling precipitates of interstitial impurities (C, O and N) was investigated by means of various thermal and mechanical treatments. The increase in the cold working degree resulted in band structure of coarse Ti-CON precipitates having enhanced impact properties. Solid solution heat treatment followed by re-heating resulted in the formation of high density Ti-O-C precipitates enhancing high temperature strength. Combination of re-heating and cold rolling enhanced further the strength. Improvements in thermal and mechanical treatments are discussed for application of V-4Cr-4Ti to fusion structural materials.