Cluster Ion Emission from C₂H₂ and C₂H₆ Ices Induced by ²⁵²CF Fission Fragments

Surfaces covered with astrophysical ices are the predominant materials of many solar system bodies, such as comets and trans-Neptunian objects. They are constantly subjected to ion bombardment by solar wind ions and cosmic rays, which induces: i) chemical reactions in the ice and ii) sputtering, supplying the exosphere with neutral and ionic radicals or clusters. Energetic processing of these materials at low temperature have been investigated through laboratory studies, aiming to analyze the processes of astrophysical ion desorption and new molecular species synthesis. C₂H₂ and C₂H₆ were observed in molecular clouds, comae of comets, the hydrocarbon-rich atmosphere of planets and their moons (like Jupiter and Saturn), and on the surfaces of Titan, Triton and Pluto.