Deuterium and Helium Release and Microstructure of Tungsten Deposition Layers Formed by RF Plasma Sputtering

Abstract

It is important to evaluate tritium behavior in tungsten deposition layers considering a long-term plasma operation. In this study, tungsten deposition layers were formed by deuterium or helium RF plasma sputtering. The release behavior of deuterium or helium from the layers were observed by a thermal desorption method. When a tungsten deposition layer does not contain oxygen, the retained deuterium is mainly released as D₂. When oxygen exists in the layer, the majority of deuterium is released as water vapor. Tungsten deposition layers have an amorphous structure and consist of fine grain with size of 2-3 nm. Numerous bubbles are observed in the layers. A formation of tungsten deposition layer in a fusion reactor may make tritium control more difficult.