Publications Details

Methods and Models for the Study of Aging Effects in Palladium Tritide

Robinson, David B.; Homer, Mark; Zschiesche, Dale; Nissen, April E.H.; Ellis, Dustin; Sugar, Joshua D.; Vitale, Suzanne M.; House, Stephen D.; Jarek, Russell L.

We have developed methods to expose milligram-scale samples of metals to tritium for studies of aging effects on material properties, primarily intended for metals that reversibly form hydrides. The tritium decays to helium within the solid, leading to profound changes in microstructural features and macroscopic properties. We present our combined experimental and modeling approach, and provide an example of a palladium foil aged 3 months.