Technician / F at BARC (Bhabha Atomic Research Centre) (2023-07 – 2024-06)
Working in the Radiation Damage & Electron Microscopy Section (RD & EMS) of the Materials Science Division at BARC, focused on metallographic sample preparation, microstructural characterization, and lab instrumentation support.
- Carried out routine and advanced sample preparation for diverse range of alloys including Zirconium-based alloys, Reactor pressure vessel steels, Austenitic stainless steels, Copper samples, Laser welded mild steel and stainless steel samples, Fuel pin and bearing pad weld samples
- Performed precise chemical etching of samples using alloy-specific solutions such as Kroll's reagent, Aquaria, and Nital
- Successfully conducted electropolishing of various alloy samples under controlled parameters (20 V and -40°C)
- Prepared high-quality TEM samples of Zr-based and low-alloy steels by mechanical thinning to <100 µm, punching 3 mm discs, and final thinning via twin-jet electropolishing
- Recorded optical micrographs for microstructural observation and performed grain size analysis using standardized imaging software
- Participated in synthesis of various alloys using Electron Beam Melting (EBM) instruments
- Measured hardness of both irradiated and unirradiated samples including RPV steels, copper variants, laser-welded samples, and fuel pin welds
- Ensured all laboratory instruments were regularly maintained and operated in optimal condition
- Maintained clean, organized, and hazard-free lab environment
- Monitored and managed stock of lab consumables for mounting, polishing, grinding, and cutting
- Actively provided assistance to scientific officers across various instruments and experimental setups
- Participated in various departmental activities and contributed to collaborative team environment
