Behavior of metallic nanoparticles in Al matrix under high electronic energy deposition

Metallic nanoparticles (Pb and Bi) embedded in a crystalline Al matrix were irradiated with 30 MeV C60 cluster ions at 300 K. Experimental evidence of partial amorphization of bismuth nanoparticles is observed. On the other hand, Pb inclusions remain crystalline. The condition under which embedded nanoparticles can be amorphized is discussed.