​University Supervisor: Dr Dong Liu

ISIS Supervisor: Dr Joe Kelleher

Many developments in nuclear technology rely on the availability of high-temperature irradiation and mechanical damage-tolerant materials. Graphite has found application as a ​neutron moderator/reflector, fusion plasma interface material, and target for particle physics. However, the properties of graphite can be very difficult to model on account of the defects in its 2D layered structure, leading to anisotropic thermal expansion and radiation-induced dimensional change. These are further complicated by the non-linear and time-dependent changes in its properties with irradiation. More recently, MAX phases are another class of hexagonal 2D carbide or nitride that are emerging as potential materials for nuclear fuel cladding and pump impellers, on account of their high mechanical and irradiation damage tolerance at elevated temperatures. Neutron diffraction has been identified a very useful tool to provide a view of the defects at nano-scale and how they change with service-relevant load, temperature and irradiation in this class of materials. In this project, we will extend the capability at ISIS and build up a physics-based model to obtain a clear understanding of how the defects at nano-scale are reflected on the neutron spectrum; the outcome can be applied to a wide range of materials with similar properties.​

For more information, and to apply, follow this link​.