Preface

In the eBook the processes occurring in solid solutions on the basis of metals and alkaline halide under the high-energy radiation are discussed. Metals and alkali halides have a similar close-packed crystalline structure but strongly differ in their radiation resistance. Metals and alloys are radiation-resistant materials, and alkali halides are rather sensitive to radiation. Despite such differences many processes occurring during irradiation are carried out by the identical mechanisms in both types of materials.

The most important result of irradiation is the generation of super-equilibrium concentration of point defects which can be several orders of magnitude greater than the thermal equilibrium concentration. The degree of super saturation of point defects is the main driving force of radiation-stimulated processes in solid solutions. The migration of radiation defects and solute atoms, their interaction among themselves and with the structural damage of the crystal lattice determine the entire spectrum of radiation-stimulated processes. We consider the basic processes and phenomena in crystalline solid solutions under irradiation. These include radiation-induced diffusion, segregation and decomposition of the solid solution, which significantly alter the structure of the material, its physical, mechanical and other properties. Some important radiation induced phenomena, such as radiation-induced swelling, void formation, growth, embrittlement, creep, and the behavior of hydrogen, deuterium and helium in irradiated materials require separate reviews.