Precipitation and transformation of γ- and δ-hydrides in quenched Zr-1Nb-0.01Cu cladding tube revealed by high-energy X-ray diffraction

Key Points

• Transformation of γ- and δ-hydrides occurs during quenching, impacting material integrity.
• High-energy X-ray diffraction shows distinct precipitation patterns and structural changes in cladding.
• Analysis employed high-energy X-ray diffraction on zirconium alloy cladding tubes to monitor hydride behavior.
• Implications may include improved understanding of cladding performance under quenching conditions.