Accelerator Simulation and Theoretical Modelling of Radiation Effects (SMoRE)

Materials properties can be strongly affected by irradiation, therefore behaviour of materials under irradiation has been studied for more than 50 years, however not all scientific and technological aspects have been fully understood and further research is still necessary, in particular there is lack of information for new and improved core materials irradiated at very high doses. This proposal for coordinated research project (CRP) is reflecting the needs of Member States in domain of high dose radiation effect on core structural materials in nuclear reactors and other nuclear systems (fusion reactors and ADS). The CRP is aiming to enhance the capability of interested Member States to build up advanced or innovative technologies by promotion of information exchange, including the assessment of the constructive use of such innovative technologies to resolve some of the issues associated with existing nuclear fuel cycles for sustainable growth of nuclear energy. The objectives of the CRP in the first phase are focused mostly at the improvement, development and testing of core structural materials for higher burn-up in advanced water-cooled and fast reactors. The identified goals will be addressed by accelerator simulation of high-dose irradiation and complementary application of theoretical modelling. The approach of coupling accelerator studies with modelling has tremendous potential to increase understanding of radiation damage in high dose materials, validation of complex materials models and increased use of novel characterization techniques for enhanced understanding of the basic problems and processes. The outputs of CRP will contribute to extension of knowledge in radiation effects and development of core structural materials with improved radiation-resistant properties.