Nucleation and growth of interstitial dislocation loops in irradiated aluminum

Formation and growth of dislocation loops of interstitial type in Al (99.999%) during in situ irradiation with 1-MeV electrons at 20–150°C using a high-voltage electron microscope are investigated by transmission electron microscopy. Experimental results are analyzed within the classical theory and kinetic model of nucleation and growth of loops. The parameters controlling the process of radiation-induced formation of interstitial dislocation loops under irradiation are determined.