On the threshold of ion track formation in CaF2

TL;DR

This study investigates the threshold for ion track formation in CaF2 using advanced experimental techniques, providing new insights that challenge existing models and improve understanding of ion irradiation effects.

Contribution

It offers new experimental evidence for a lower threshold of ion track formation in CaF2 and enhances analysis methods for studying ion-induced damage.

Findings

Threshold for ion track formation below 3 keV/nm

Transmission electron microscopy confirms track formation at low energies

Rutherford backscattering spectroscopy supports TEM findings

Abstract

There is ongoing debate regarding the mechanism of swift heavy ion track formation in CaF2. The objective of this study is to shed light on this important topic using a range of complimentary experimental techniques. Evidence of the threshold for ion track formation being below 3 keV/nm is provided by both transmission electron microscopy and Rutherford backscattering spectroscopy in the channeling mode which has direct consequences for the validity of models describing the response of CaF2 to swift heavy ion irradiation. Advances in the TEM and RBS/c analyses presented here pave the way for better understanding of the ion track formation.