Atomic Defects in Metals · Au-Cu

This chapter discusses the properties and interactions of atomic defects in Au_xCu_1-x alloy. The long range ordering phases AuCu₃ and AuCu are considered as model systems for the investigation of defects in alloys from the very beginning of radiation damage. The ordering behaviour of Au_0.10Cu_0.90 short range ordering alloy has been investigated after quenching along with the behaviour of AuCu₃. A complex ordering kinetics under irradiation that might be explained by disperse SRO has been found. The resistivity annealing has been investigated after irradiation with electrons and neutrons as well as proton and α-particles. The low temperature annealing stages are much better defined for the highly ordered alloy as compared to the quenched one. Independent of the degree of order, vacancy migration is attributed to the annealing stage around room temperature; this conclusion is supported by quenching results. Isochronal recovery of the electrical resistivity after irradiation with electrons of different energies at 20.7 K for ordered AuCu₃ is illustrated. Isochronal annealing of the electrical resistivity after irradiation with 2.4 MeV electrons at 20.7K for disordered AuCu₃ and disordered AuCu are shown. Isochronal annealing after neutron irradiation at 20 K for ordered and disordered AuCu₃, ordered AuCu₃ and disordered AuCu₃ are presented.