Fundamental research in ion-solid interactions

At the Tandem Laboratory, fundamental research is carried out on the physical interactions between ions and solid matter, with a particular focus on electronic excitations in the low- and medium-energy regimes.

For accurate, quantitative materials analysis as well as targeted materials modifications, the underlying physical interactions between ions and matter need to be understood precisely. Therefore, we are conducting research on these fundamental ion-solid interactions.

One of the key parameters for many ion beam-based techniques is the energy transfer of the ion to the material. We study among others the stopping power (= mean ion energy loss per travelled path length) for different ions and materials of interest, and we are regular contributors to the stopping power database of the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA).

IAEA Stopping power database

Focus on low and medium energies

In the area of ion-solid interactions, we have a specific focus on electronic excitations in the low and medium-energy regimes (few keV to few hundred keV), which is historically less studied and where interactions are much more complex.

Other research topics include interatomic potential at low energies as well as the influence of the ion charge state on energy deposition at different primary energies.

Selected publications