Ion Erosion and Particle Release in Graphite Materials

Ion sputter erosion of a variety of graphite materials, some treated with an aqueous-based “vitreous graphite impregnation” process, was studied with high-dose exposures with Ar
⁺
ions. Ion erosion depths were measured with optical profilometry tools. Loosely-bound graphite particles were collected on adhesive tape and imaged with optical and SEM tools.