Stochastic theory of radiated helium embrittlement of metal materials

摘要

Based on the nonequilibrum statistical mechanics of fracture, the helium embrittlement of irradiated metals is studied. A microscopic mechanism of HTHE (high temperature helium embrittlement) is proposed including the nucleation and growth of the helium bubbles. The rate formula of the nucleation and growth of helium bubbles are derived. By using the evolution equation of the helium bubbles, the density distribution function of the helium bubbles and the lifetime of the material can be deduced. Good agreement between the theoretical and experimental results demonstrates the correctness of the proposed theory.