The diffusion of58Co in oriented single crystals of α-zirconium

Abstract

Measurements of the diffusion of cobalt in both polycrystalline and oriented single crystal specimens of α-zirconium are reported. Non-Gaussian concentration profiles were frequently observed and are attributed to a combination of near-surface back-diffusion and effects associated with the extremely low solubility of the cobalt. The diffusivities are very high and their temperature dependence is complex. It is proposed that a combination of singlet and multiplet interstitial mechanisms is operative.