Capability Overview
The Fracture Mechanics Laboratory specializes in fracture toughness testing and developing small-specimen testing techniques for metallic structural materials.
A key part of ORNL’s materials research involves understanding characteristics of materials and how those characteristics impact failure modes. The Fracture Mechanics Lab at ORNL excels in ASTM-standardized testing, with researchers actively leading ASTM standard development committees.
The team pioneers small-specimen testing techniques for post-irradiation evaluation of structural materials in fission and fusion reactors. With state-of-the-art facilities, including automated Charpy impact testers, servo-hydraulic and electromechanical frames and a fully automated Vickers hardness tester, the lab delivers cutting-edge capabilities for advanced materials research and structural integrity assessment.
Equipment & Facilities
ASTM E1921 master curve testing
ASTM E1820 J-R curve testing
Charpy testing from -150°C to 480°C
Servohydraulic frames with up to 300 kip capacities
Contact
Dr. Mikhail A. Sokolov is currently a task leader at the U.S. Nuclear Regulatory Commission, specializing in radiation effects on low-alloy steels. He holds a Ph.D. in Technical Sciences from the I. V. Kurchatov Institute and an M.S. in Material Science from MIFI. Dr. Sokolov has received multiple recognitions for his contributions to radiation damage research in nuclear reactor materials. His research investigates the impact of radiation on fracture toughness and mechanical properties of steels, developing thermal annealing recipes to enhance material recovery in reactor pressure vessels. For more information on collaborations, contact Dr. Sokolov at [email protected].