Molecular Dynamics Simulation of Cascade Damage in Gold

Abstract

AbstractHigh-energy cascades have been simulated in gold using molecular dynamics with a modified embedded atom method potential. The results show that both vacancy and interstitial clusters form with high probability as a result of intracascade processes. The formation of clusters has been interpreted in terms of the high pressures generated in the core of the cascade during the early stages. We provide evidence that correlation between interstitial and vacancy clustering exists.