PNNL

Abstract

Using energetic ions, we have demonstrated effective modification of grain size in nanocrystalline ceria in the critical region for controlling exceptional size-dependent electronicionic conductivity. The grain size increases and follows an exponential law as a function of ion fluence that increases with temperature, while the cubic phase is stable under the irradiation. The unique self-healing response of radiation damage at grain boundaries is utilized to control the grain size at the nanoscale.