Understanding Micro-Breeder Performance via Multiscale Materials Modelling of Tritium with Interfaces in Vanadium Alloys

Tritium, a heavy isotope of hydrogen, is one of the two components of the fuel for a fusion reactor. But this element is incredibly scarce and so a viable reactor will need to make its own fuel. This process takes place a component known as a breeder, one design for which exploits liquid lithium contained in a vanadium alloy component. This is a challenging combination of materials, that we will then subject to the harsh conditions of the fusion reactor, including bombardment by energetic neutrons.

To predict the performance of a breeder system, we need to understand how the tritium produced from lithium by reaction with neutron interacts with the vanadium alloy. To model these interactions, we need to take account of the details of interatomic forces at the smallest scales, but also capture the motion and accumulation of tritium in the vanadium alloy over much longer length and time-scales.

This project will take a multiscale materials modelling approach to this problem. You will begin at the scale of atoms, using classical molecular dynamics simulations with machine-learned models of interatomic forces to explore how tritium moves through the alloy and interacts with microstructural features. The results of these simulations will then be used to parameterise a phase-field model at the microstructural scale to provide a platform for simulating tritium uptake in the breeder system.

You will join the group of Professor Chris Race (UKAEA Chair in Fusion Materials) at the University of Sheffield. This project is in collaboration with UKAEA and co-supervised by Dr Prashanth Srinivasan. You will be trained in atomistic and mesoscale simulation techniques and have the opportunity to be involved in the broader micro-breeder research programme at UKAEA.

The project will be mainly based in Sheffield. There will be opportunities for travel to CCFE in Culham and for international travel for conferences and collaboration. The extent of travel will be tailored to the needs and desires of the student to make sure the project is as accessible to all, regardless of personal circumstances.

This project may be compatible with part time study, please contact the project supervisors if you are interested in exploring this.

This project is offered by University of Sheffield. For further information please contact Chris Race christopher.race@sheffield.ac.uk