"Laser Powder Bed Fusion of Pure Tungsten: Cracking Mechanisms and Mechanical Behavior" 

Tanner McElroy, MSE PhD Candidate 

Advisor: Professor Xinghang Zhang

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ABSTRACT

A significant amount of heat is generated when neutrons interact with plasma-facing components, such as tungsten monoblocks. Tungsten is selected for this application due to its high melting temperature and thermal conductivity. Currently, the design of these monoblocks is relatively simple; however, additive manufacturing could enable the production of more efficient models. Laser powder bed fusion can permit the fabrication of complex components made of refractory metals with high resolutions. Currently, tungsten’s susceptibility to microcracking in LPBF has restricted it from applications in which large tensile strengths are unavoidable. Microcracking in tungsten is a complex phenomenon, dependent on the material’s brittle to ductile transition temperature, oxide formation and mobility, and residual stress. The contributing factors by which these mechanisms can be altered will be discussed.