Collision cascade simulations were performed in the Er2O3 sesquioxide. The

resultant point defects observed at the end of the ballistic phase of the collision

cascade were analysed and their evaluation over longer time examined using

temperature-accelerated dynamics and the kinetic Monte Carlo method. The results

showed that the large mass difference between Er and O atoms resulted in cascades

with differing structures, where an initially energetic O atom could channel over

long distances; depositing energy in smaller sub-regions. On the other hand, denser

cascades with vacancy-rich cores developed from Er primary knock-on atoms. The most mobile defect that could form was the isolated O vacancy but, when this

occurred as part of a larger defect cluster, it became trapped. The energy barriers to

the movement of all other defects were very high.

Radiation Damage and Evolution of Radiation-Induced Defects in Er2O3 Bixbyite.

L.Kittiratanawasin, R.Smith, B.P.Uberuaga, K.E.Sickafus: Journal of Physics -

Condensed Matter, 2009, 21[11], 115403