Quantifying variability in the mechanical response of CrCrZr alloys using crystal plasticity modelling

This project aims to evaluate the creep-fatigue life of metal joints that are expected to feature in prototype fusion plants. The joints of interest are made up of autogenous CuCrZr welds. A method to accurately predict the stress distribution across the weld is needed for better prediction of its life. It is stipulated that the use of a crystal plasticity modelling framework that has been developed in the group will provide the needed stress field as it accounts for the microstructure variability across the weld.
The first step in the project is the calibration of the model to CuCrZr high-temperature, low-cyclic testing. Later during the project, considering CuCrZr deformation is very sensitive to heat-treatment, the variability in the mechanical performance will be estimated by a microstructure-based sensitivity analysis using the crystal plasticity framework.