This research proposal outlines a methodology for studying hydride growth kinetics in zirconium alloys under thermal cycling conditions using in-situ transmission electron microscopy. The study aims to fill gaps in understanding hydride nucleation, growth, and reorientation mechanisms at the nanoscale under realistic service conditions.
Key findings
Direct observation of hydride-matrix interface evolution with sub-nanometer resolution.
Measurement of growth rates with millisecond temporal resolution.
Correlation of microstructural changes with thermal history.
Validation of kinetic models for hydride precipitation and dissolution.
Benchmark data for phase-field simulation validation.
Limitations & open questions
Limited existing kinetic data from ex-situ measurements.
Inability to observe atomic scale hydride dynamics with conventional techniques.
Limited quantitative data on hydride growth rates.
Need for systematic investigation of thermal cycling effects on hydride morphology.