Graphene distribution and structural integrity dependent irradiation resistance of graphene/tungsten composites

While graphene/metal composites could exhibit excellent irradiation resistance, how to further improve the irradiation resistance capacity via designing microstructure features of the graphene yet to be explored. In the present study, the influences of graphene structural integrity and distribution on the irradiation resistance of graphene/tungsten composite are evaluated and analyzed via molecular dynamics (MD) simulation. By altering intrinsic point defects within graphene and layer thickness of graphene, the simulation results indicate that multi-layer graphene with intrinsic point defects exhibits the better irradiation induced defects absorption and helium bubble storage capacity, compared with that of perfect single-layer graphene. Moreover, the helium bubble pre-placed near the graphene/metal interface could be effectively absorbed in the interlayer of the multi layer graphene upon irradiation.

Automated summary

This study investigates the influence of graphene microstructure on the irradiation resistance of graphene/metal composites using molecular dynamics simulation. The results show that the presence of intrinsic defects in multi-layer graphene enhances its ability to absorb irradiation-induced defects and store helium bubbles, compared to perfect single-layer graphene.