Novel materials for next-generation accelerator target facilities

TL;DR

This paper explores novel materials like High-Entropy Alloys and Nanofibers to improve the durability of accelerator target components under extreme thermal and radiation stresses, aiming to enable future high-power facilities.

Contribution

It introduces innovative material solutions and customization strategies to enhance target component resilience against thermal shock and radiation damage in high-power accelerators.

Findings

Promising advancements in material microstructure optimization.

Initial in-beam performance improvements observed.

Plans for irradiation experiments to validate durability.

Abstract

As beam power continues to increase in next-generation accelerator facilities, high-power target systems face crucial challenges. Components like beam windows and particle-production targets must endure significantly higher levels of particle fluence. The primary beam's energy deposition causes rapid heating (thermal shock) and induces microstructural changes (radiation damage) within the target material. These effects ultimately deteriorate the components' properties and lifespan. With conventional materials already stretched to their limits, we are exploring novel materials including High-Entropy Alloys and Electrospun Nanofibers that offer a fresh approach to enhancing tolerance against thermal shock and radiation damage. Following an introduction to the challenges facing high-power target systems, we will give an overview of the promising advancements we have made so far in customizing the compositions and microstructures of these pioneering materials. Our focus is on optimizing their in-beam thermomechanical and physics performance. Additionally, we will outline our ongoing plans for in-beam irradiation experiments and advanced material characterizations. The primary goal of this research is to push the frontiers of target materials, thereby enabling future multi-MW facilities that will benefit various programs in high-energy physics and beyond.