The influence of magnetic frustration on the magneto-elastic properties and defect dynamics in Fe-Cr alloys

High chromium ferritic steels are known to be highly resistant to neutron irradiation, in terms of reduced
swelling and accumulated damage, providing a good resistance to corrosion as well. Because of that, they are
considered as prime candidates for the structural materials in future reactors, used for both fission and fusion
applications. Several experimental results revealed the existence of non-monotonic physical properties of Fe-Cr
alloys as a function of chromium content. This anomalous behavior is observed in the mechanical as well as in
the magnetic properties, and possibly leads to the interesting magneto-elastic effects. This project aims to
investigate the correlation between magnetic and mechanical properties by exploring the magnetism,
magnetoelastic effects, and in particular the influence of magnetic frustration on defect dynamics in Fe-Cr
alloys. Once this correlation is understood, it will be possible to further tailor these alloys and to improve their
physical properties relevant for the structural applications.