Deformation mechanism of Zr–Sn–Nb–Fe cladding tube under various stress states

The deformation mechanism in hexagonal closely-packed materials is highly dependent on the relationship between the texture and stress state. In this study, the deformation mechanisms of cladding tubes composed of Zr–Sn–Nb–Fe, which has a hexagonal closely-packed structure, are investigated at 298 K under axial tension, axial compression, and hoop tension. Analysis of the Schmid factors and microstructural characteristics revealed that prismatic slip is the predominant deformation under axial tension, accompanied by a few pyramidal slips and {10–11} twins. In addition, prismatic slips and {10–12} twins are activated by axial compression. Furthermore, the change of the loading direction from axial tension to compression caused a transition from prismatic-slip predominant deformation to a {10–12} twin and prismatic-slip predominant mechanism. Moreover, prismatic and pyramidal slips were found to be activated by hoop stress. These findings provide insights to gain a better understanding of the plastic deformation mechanisms of cladding tubes.