Recovery of diamond after irradiation at high energy and annealing

Microstructural changes produced by high energy and high dose ion irradiation damage in diamond are studied using Raman scattering, electron energy loss spectroscopy (EELS) and high resolution transmission electron microscopy (HRTEM). Specimens were prepared using preferential electrochemical etching at the end of range. The diamond cap is almost fully recrystallized upon annealing at 650-750 degreesC, evidence for slightly damaged diamond being found. The end-of-range region contained i-carbon as well as graphitic structures. (C) 2001 Elsevier Science B.V. All rights reserved.