Eurofusion
Enabling Research project
Development of innovative protective coating for the first wall (DIPC_FW) (2026-2027)
PI — M. Konuhova
Fusion reactors operate under extreme conditions, including high radiation fluxes, thermal loads, and particle bombardment, which significantly limit the lifetime of first-wall materials. This project aims to develop advanced protective metal coatings for EUROFER97, the reference material for breeding blankets, based on the chemically compatible Fe–Cr–Ta system.
In severe accident scenarios involving air ingress, oxidation protection is expected to rely on the formation of complex CrTa-based oxides, such as CrTaO₄, which have recently emerged as promising protective phases. However, their fundamental properties and radiation response remain poorly understood.
The project focuses on investigating CrTaO₄-forming Fe–Cr–Ta alloys and related oxides under fusion-relevant irradiation conditions using a combination of experimental irradiation studies, advanced characterization, and first-principles modelling. The results will support the design of radiation-tolerant, thermally stable coatings for first-wall and structural applications in fusion reactors.