This publication is intended to assist nuclear utilities in optimizing the service life of nuclear power plants. It reviews the latest research on the effects of neutron irradiation on the steels and welds of reactor pressure vessels within light water cooled and moderated reactors.

This publication sets out the findings of a co-ordinated research project to determine the influence of the mechanism of the deterioration effect in radiation embrittlement of reactor pressure vessel steels with a high nickel content in nuclear power plants, including procurement of materials, determination of mechanical properties, irradiation and testing of specimens, and microstructural characterisation.