Dynamic self-assembly of materials under harsh radiation conditions
Latvian Council of Science
PI: V.N. Kuzovkov
Duration: 2025-2027
This project investigates how advanced optical and dielectric materials adapt under intense radiation, which is crucial for fusion reactor development and space applications.
The industrial progress of the 21st century heavily relies on the development of fusion reactors for clean energy production. A significant challenge lies in creating advanced materials capable of withstanding extreme conditions, particularly high temperatures and intense neutron (ion/electron) radiation. Our project focuses on a comprehensive theoretical analysis of radiation-induced processes in various advanced functional materials to predict their mechanical and chemical stability while retaining optical and dielectric properties. We aim to explore the formation of ordered structures of defects under irradiation, a phenomenon known as dynamic self-assembly, which is crucial for understanding material behaviour under extreme conditions.