Theory of amorphization kinetics in intermetallics

An examination of amorphization kinetics in intermetallic alloys indicated that both a model based on cascade-induced point defects and a model based on a uniform production of point defects rationalized observed amorphization kinetics in ion irradiated NiTi. The dose dependencies of average defect concentrations were calculated and the fluctuations in concentration were simulated using a Monte Carlo technique. Assumed low interstitial mobilities and high sink strengths promoted amorphization. Faster interstitial mobilities caused shorter lifetime for cascades and lesser accumulation of cascade damage. Assuming uniform production of point defects, the predicted dose exponent for amorphization increased with increasing critical defect concentration and increasing critical cluster size