Cluster dynamics simulation of mixed Cu-vacancy clusters in a neutron-irradiated Fe-Cu alloy

The binary Fe-Cu system as a model system for Cu-containing reactor pressure vessel steels under neutron irradiation was studied by means of cluster dynamics simulations. In these simulations the evolution of the size distribution and composition of mixed Cu-vacancy clusters in the Fe matrix is described. We have found that the kinetics of copper rich precipitates under neutron irradiation is described correctly, if the Cu-rich clusters are considered as traps as well as emitters of single vacancies. The results are compared with SANS experiments on a binary Fe-Cu model alloy reported in the literature. The assumption on the constant composition of copper rich precipitates after the cascade stage was checked.