Fundamental studies on integrity of hafnium as control rods, 1; Microstructure observations and crystal orientation measurement of unirradiated materials

Chimi, Yasuhiro; Ogiyanagi, Jin ; Shimada, Sachio*; Nishiyama, Yutaka ; Nakamura, Takehiko ; Abe, Katsuhiro*

In order to understand basic irradiation behavior of hafnium (Hf) which is used as the control rod for the Boiling Water Reactor (BWR), we are planning irradiation tests of Hf at Japan Materials Testing Reactor (JMTR). Prior to the irradiation tests, some of the fundamental properties of unirradiated Hf were obtained. In the present report, we discuss the results of optical microscope and SEM observations, and crystal orientation measurement.