Gamma and Proton Irradiation Tests on a Piezoelectric Actuator

Abstract

Piezoelectric actuators are candidates for use in radioactive environments but specific radiation tests are necessary to understand the radiation effects on the whole actuator assembly. The results of three irradiation tests on a piezoelectric actuator used for Crystal Collimation are presented. The total ionising dose effects are studied with two Gamma (60Co) Tests up to 10 MGy and 1 MGy, whereas the displacement damage effects are studied in a Proton Test up to 2 MGy and 1.14 × 1016 p/cm2 fluence. The main results are summarised for each test, presenting a maximum impedance increase of less than 25% (Proton Test), a maximum free stroke reduction of less than 25% (Proton Test) and a variation in the shape of the hysteresis response of the actuator.

Keywords

• Gamma-ray effects
• hysteresis
• material testing
• piezoelectric actuators
• proton effects
• radiation effects