Refractory Metals for Nuclear Energy
In a reactor's radiation field, what matters isn't just strength at high temperature, but also behaviour under neutron bombardment — activation, embrittlement, neutron absorption. Many standard materials are ruled out here for purely nuclear reasons, long before their thermal limit is reached.
Which Material for Which Function
Tungsten
Highest density among available structural metals: the most efficient shielding against gamma and neutron radiation per unit of installation space.
Molybdenum
High high-temperature strength at a moderate neutron-capture cross-section: structural parts in reactor and fusion facilities.
Tantalum
High corrosion resistance against liquid metals and coolants: encapsulation and cladding for sensitive components.
Niobium
Favourable neutron behaviour (low capture cross-section) combined with good high-temperature strength: the preferred structural material where neutron economy matters.
Rhenium
Retains its mechanical properties even at the highest temperatures in specialised applications.
Components in Everyday Use
- Shielding blocks and plates
- Structural parts for reactor internals
- Cladding tubes and encapsulation
- Divertor components in fusion facilities (ITER-type)
- Neutron absorber geometries made to drawing
Why Refracore. For shielding applications, geometry and material choice directly determine the build volume — we work with you to find the most economical combination of density, machinability and lead time. Custom parts made to drawing, including small quantities for research reactors and experimental setups.
Request Shielding Design & Geometry Consultation
Describe your application — we'll get back to you within 1–2 business days with a technical assessment.
