A technique has been developed for slow cycle strain fatigue testing using specimens of thin-wall tubing of the type under consideration for use as super heat fuel cladding. Data on type 304 stainless steel have been obtained under radiation and in the absence of radiation. The strain cycle fatigue life of this alloy at 1200 to 1300 deg F is decreased three fold by the presence of a neutron flux of 1.5 x 10/sup 14/ > 1 Mev. Out-of-reactor data have been obtained on Inconel at 1300 deg F. (auth)

Research was continued during the report period on the use of isotope neutron sources for producing short-lived radioisotopes. Experiments with a newly constructed betacounting cell are reported in which a 50-curie Be--Po neutron source was used. Study of the radiation chemistry of polymers was continued concerning the effects of polymer structure on free-radical formation. Free-radical formation in several additional polymers was studied. Preliminary work is also reported in an investigation of internal irradiation effects on the chemical activity of catalysts. (J.R.D.)

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