Fission/fusion cross-cutting research in the area of multi-scale materials modelling

Topic description

Specific Challenge:

As the fusion programme progresses towards the ultimate goal of electricity generation, there are increasing opportunities for synergies in a wide range of areas that are common with fission. The present action is to encourage closer integration of research efforts between fission and fusion research communities in the domain of multi-scale modelling in research on material properties and the development of new materials.

Ferritic-martensitic (F/M) steel is a promising material for use in both fusion and fission installations. Multi-scale modelling is expected to be an efficient and effective tool in the development of a complete description and in-depth understanding of phenomena in these steels. In this context, the predictive capability of models is of paramount importance and should be aimed at supporting the elaboration of design rules. Proposed modelling approaches would need to be supported by robust validation means, including where necessary testing of environmental degradation and appropriate irradiation campaigns ranging from neutrons to ions. Contributions to benchmarking, the development of codes and standards as well as to small specimen test technology is also encouraged. It is essential for proposals to demonstrate substantial benefit for both fission and fusion, to include actors from both communities (specifically EUROfusion and EERA Joint Programme on Nuclear Materials), and to complement the existing research efforts in both domains.

The Commission considers that proposals requesting a contribution from Euratom of between EUR 3 and 5 million would allow this specific challenge to be addressed appropriately. Nonetheless, this does not preclude submission and selection of proposals requesting other amounts. Proposals for topics NFRP 13 and 14 will be ranked in a single ranking list.

This action will help the cross-fertilisation in nuclear materials research between the two main fields of activity represented by fission and fusion and will result in a better general understanding and critical mass in the discipline as a whole. In turn, it will help overcome bottlenecks that are limiting developments in fission and fusion, including in technology areas with safety relevance.

Open Innovation
Open Science