Introduction to Nuclear Materials; Fundamentals and Applications

Covering both fundamental and advanced aspects in an accessible way, this textbook begins with an overview of nuclear reactor systems, helping readers to familiarize themselves with the varied designs. Then the readers are introduced to different possibilities for materials applications in the various sections of nuclear energy systems. Materials selection and life prediction methodologies for nuclear reactors are also presented in relation to creep, corrosion and other degradation mechanisms. An appendix compiles useful property data relevant for nuclear reactor applications.

Throughout the book, there is a thorough coverage of various materials science principles, such as physical and mechanical metallurgy, defects and diffusion and radiation effects on materials, with serious efforts made to establish structure-property correlations wherever possible. With its emphasis on the latest developments and outstanding problems in the field, this is both a valuable introduction and a ready reference for beginners and experienced practitioners alike.

K. Linga Murty has been on the faculty of the Nuclear Engineering department at North Carolina State University since 1981 and has been teaching courses in Nuclear Materials. He received his Ph.D. degree in Applied Physics (Materials) from Cornell University (USA) in 1970. Dr. Murty is the recipient of numerous awards including the American Nuclear Society Mishima Award (1993) and the Metcalfe Medal (1963). He is a fellow of ASM-International, ANS and IIM and has authored or coauthored more than 290 technical papers.

Indrajit Charit has been on the faculty of the Chemical and Materials Engineering department at the University of Idaho since 2007. He serves both Materials Science and Engineering and Nuclear Engineering programs. He received his Ph.D. degree in Metallurgical Engineering from the University of Missouri-Rolla (USA) in 2004. His research has been supported by the US Department of Energy’s Nuclear Energy University Programs, Idaho National Laboratory and Center for Advanced Energy Studies.
He has published about 60 technical papers.