The Imortance of Irradiated Materials Testing
The Applied Technical Services Family of Companies (FoC) provides irradiated materials testing (IMT) to help ensure safety and longevity in nuclear systems. IMT involves testing materials exposed to radiation inside a nuclear reactor or similar environments to understand the impact on the irradiated materialโs structure and performance over time.
Evaluating Irradiated Material Performance
Reactor components typically endure harsh conditions, including radiation, heat, and pressure. Integrity Monitoring Technology is essential for preventing unexpected material failures and maintaining rigorous safety standards.
IMT provides critical data for managing reactor components throughout their lifespan, aiding in the assessment of material longevity under safe operating conditions. Adherence to regulatory bodies like the NRC and IAEA is vital, as they require proof of safe material performance under irradiation, making IMT indispensable for compliance.
IMT aids in the development of new materials, promoting innovation in advanced reactors like Small Modular Reactors (SMRs) and Generation IV reactors, alongside accident-tolerant fuels and radiation-resistant alloys.
What happens to materials under irradiation?
When materials are exposed to neutron or gamma radiation, their atomic structure is disrupted. This can cause the following:
- Hardening or softening
- Embrittlementย
- Swellingย
- Creep
- Phase changesย
Supporting Materials Through the Irradiation Process
We offer extensive support for materials throughout the irradiation lifecycle, beginning with pre-irradiation baseline testing and concluding with post-irradiation examination (PIE).
- Initial Testing: This phase determines essential properties for future reference.
- Post-Irradiation Analysis: We evaluate changes in mechanical performance, dimensions, and microstructure.
Our teams follow stringent handling and safety protocols, ensuring sample integrity and generating dependable data. This allows clients to effectively assess material performance and make well-informed maintenance or design decisions.
Applications Across Industries
Irradiated materials testing supports a range of industries where radiation exposure impacts material performance, including but not limited to:
- Nuclear Power Generation (including SMRs and advanced reactors)
- Aerospace and Defense
- Medical and Radiological Equipment Manufacturing
- Research and Materials Development
Contact Us
A little confidence goes along way. Are you interested in learning how our irradiated materials testing services can support your next project? Contact ATS today by submitting a request through our webform or give us a call +1 (888) 287-5227.

