Design and evaluation of an optimized W/Cu interlayer for W monoblock components

Divertor plasma-facing components of future fusion reactors should be able to withstand heat fluxes of 10–20MW/m2 in stationary operation. Tungsten blocks with an inner cooling tube made of CuCr1Zr, so-called monoblocks, are potential candidates for such water-cooled components. To increase the strength and reliability of the interface between the W and the cooling tube of a Cu-based alloy (CuCr1Zr), a novel advanced W-fibre/Cu metal matrix composite (MMC) was developed for operation temperatures up to 550°C. Based on optimization results to enhance the adhesion between fibre and matrix, W fibres (Wf) were chemically etched, coated by physical vapour deposition with a continuously graded W/CuPVD interlayer and then heated to 800°C. The Wf/Cu MMC was implemented by hot-isostatic pressing and brazing process in monoblock mock-ups reinforcing the interface between the plasma-facing material and the cooling channel. The suitability of the MMC as an efficient heat sink interface for water-cooled divertor components was tested in the high heat flux (HHF) facility GLADIS. Predictions from finite element simulations of the thermal behaviour of the component under loading conditions were confirmed by the HHF tests. The Wf/Cu MMC interlayer of the mock-ups survived cyclic heat loads above 10MW/m2 without any damage. One W block of each tested mock-up showed stable thermal behaviour at heat fluxes of up to 10.5MW/m2.