Crystallographic texture and thermal stability of Electron Beam Powder Bed Fusion additively manufactured ITER-Grade CuCrZr

Microstructural evolution and its mechanical implications in Electron Beam Powder Bed Fusion-manufactured CuCrZr are investigated for conditions: as-built, hot isostatically pressed (HIPped), and after short-term (3 h at different temperatures) and long-term (2 months at 375 °C) heat treatments. Electron backscatter diffraction reveals alignment of <110> directions with the build direction (BD) in as-built and HIPped conditions, causing high Taylor factors along BD. Lower Taylor factors perpendicular to BD result in a certain anisotropy. After long-term heat treatment, the <110> || BD alignment weakens, reducing the Taylor factor along BD and promoting a more isotropic mechanical response, relevant for fusion service conditions.