This practice covers the measurement of the mechanical properties of materials during charged-particle irradiation, with the test materials designed to simulate or provide understanding of, or both, the mechanical behavior of materials when exposed to neutron irradiation. This practice includes requirements for test material and particle beam characterization (such as for strain, load, temperature monitoring and control, and specimen environment monitoring), and recommended procedures for measuring mechanical properties and for calculating radiation damage (such as particle ranges, damage energy, damage rates, and damage gradients). Methods for comparing ion damage with neutron damage are also recommended.

1.1 This practice covers the performance of mechanical tests on materials being irradiated with charged particles. These tests are designed to provide an understanding of the effects of neutron irradiation on the mechanical behavior of materials. Practices are described that govern the test material, the particle beam, the experimental technique, and the damage calculations. Reference should be made to other ASTM standards, especially Practice E521. Procedures are described that are applicable to creep and creep rupture tests made in tension and torsion test modes.2

1.2 The word simulation is used here in a broad sense to imply an approximation of the relevant neutron irradiation environment. The degree of conformity can range from poor to nearly exact. The intent is to produce a correspondence between one or more aspects of the neutron and charged particle irradiations such that fundamental relationships are established between irradiation or material parameters and the material response.

1.3 The values stated in SI units are to be regarded as standard. No other units of measurement are included in this standard.

1.4 This standard does not purport to address all of the safety concerns, if any, associated with its use. It is the responsibility of the user of this standard to establish appropriate safety and health practices and determine the applicability of regulatory limitations prior to use.