Radiation Damage Parameters for SiC/SiC Composite Structure in Fusion Nuclear Environment

The radiation effects in the fiber, matrix, and interface components of the SiC/SiC composite material are important input for lifetime assessment. Neutronics calculations were performed to determine the radiation damage parameters in the fiber/matrix and the candidate interface materials. The radiation damage parameters were calculated for both the carbon and silicon sublattices. The radiation damage parameters were evaluated for representative candidate breeding blankets. The breeder and/or coolant such as Pb₈₃Li₁₇, Flibe and Li₂O affect the radiation damage parameters by impacting the neutron spectrum. The results provide an essential input for SiC/SiC composite lifetime assessment. The impact of the unique features of inertial fusion systems on damage parameters are identified.