Proton irradiation for radiation-induced changes in microstructures and mechanical properties of austenitic stainless steel

We report on microstructural and mechanical property changes as a function of radiation damage value in proton-irradiated austenitic stainless steel by means of advanced characterization techniques. The microstructural changes in proton-irradiated austenitic stainless steel were analyzed by transmission electron microscopy for observation of radiation-induced defects as well as the measurement of the chemical composition at grain boundaries. The radiation hardening after the proton irradiation was characterized by nano indentation for changes in hardness profiles with radiation damage.