Utilization of Refractory Metals and Alloys in Fusion Reactor Structures

Abstract

In design of fusion reactors, structural material selection is very crucial to improve reactor's performance. Different types of materials have been proposed for use in fusion reactor structures. Among these materials, refractory metals and alloys having capability to withstand high temperatures and high neutron wall loads have been considered to get high power density in fusion reactors. However, these materials have insufficient technological database and are very expensive compared to steels. In addition to that, except chromium and some chromium alloys they show no low activation property. This study gives an overview of potential of refractory metals and alloys for possible use in fusion reactors.