WDC-1-1 instrumented irradiation of boron carbide in a spectrum-hardened ETR flux

Boron carbide pellets were irradiated in a spectrum-hardened ETR flux at temperatures of 1220 to 1620 deg F up to maximum specimen-averaged exposures of 38 x 10/sup 20/ captures/cm/sup 3/. Material variables included pellet density (75 to 99% T. D.) and stoichiometry (B: C = 3.8 to 4.1). Gas release and irradiation temperature were continuously monitored during the irradiation. Results are reported for boron carbide structural degradation, helium release, and interaction with Type 316 stainless steel. (auth