[T17] Composite/Hybrid Materials

[17D-T17-11] Functionally Graded Fusion Reactor Plasma Facing Components Using Powder Metallurgy Field Assisted Sintering Technology

*L. Aucott¹ (1.UK Atomic Energy Authority, UK)

Keywords:Functionally Graded Materials, FAST, Fusion Energy

Fusion reactor Plasma Facing Components (PFCs) are subjected to severe operating environments with synergistic high temperature, radiation, magnetic and mechanical loads. To cope with these operational demands, Tungsten is increasingly recognised as the preferred material for PFCs in next-generation fusion devices. However, manufacturing complex Tungsten components is challenging, especially joining the Tungsten plasma facing material to the steel structural material. In this study, functionally graded joints from 100% tungsten to 100% steel are manufactured using a layered powder metallurgy approach with Field Assisted Sintering Technology. The resultant microstructures are characterised using scanning electron microscopy with electron back scatter diffraction with results showing good metallurgical bonding within the functionally graded material. This new approach offers a promising alternative to achieve highly dissimilar metal bonding between Tungsten PFCs and steel structural materials for fusion reactor applications.