Amorphization of metallic systems by ion beams

Abstract

Ion beam techniques can be used to produce amorphous metallic systems either by implanting a glass-forming species into a pre-existing crystalline metal or by irradiating a crystalline compound with inert ions. Ion beam mixing experiments in which a crystalline multilayered structure is bombarded with inert ions are related to the latter method. Examples of these different methods are given and empirical rules, which may help to predict whether a given system can be forced into an amorphous phase by ion beam techniques, are discussed. Special emphasis is placed on the question of whether energy spikes are necessary for amorphization. In this context, new results of low temperature ion irradiation experiments on Al 2Au are reported.