Doping surfaces with radioactive atoms—for research and industry

Abstract

Radioisotopes produced in solids by the nuclear interaction of ion beams are confined to thin layers. The depth and distribution of a radioisotope so produced depend on the beam species and energy; the depth is usually comparable to that region (1–100 μm) of the surface which controls important physical and chemical properties. Measurement of the γ-rays produced in the decay of the radioisotopes is increasingly used in research and industry to determine, under operating conditions, the effect on surface characteristics and morphology of such basic processes as friction, wear, corrosion and electrical activity. The article reviews the physics underlying ion beam activation, gives examples of its growing use and takes a forward look at more advanced concepts likely to increase the scope and usefulness of surface induced radioisotopes.