**2.4 Ion implantation**

The availability of IBT has also resulted in the creation of a variety of materials used in the nuclear sector. Ion implantation is the bombardment of accelerated ionized atoms (ion beams) or molecules to the surface of a material (target) to change its surface properties without changing their bulk properties [7, 19, 20] and render it suitable for use in various settings. This technique is generally carried out at a lower temperature. Ion implantation is used to develop new surface alloys and adjust surface-related attributes like hardness, toughness, fatigue, adhesion, wear, friction, dielectric properties, magnetic properties, and superconductivity as well as material corrosion resistance [21]. Ion beam coatings have also been shown to increase the mechanical, electrical, chemical, and tribological characteristics of materials used in industry. Improved material qualities are the foundation of better materials for production and design [22].

The use of this technology has been present for decades and continues to increase, particularly in the current period when practically every item is being reduced and so requires multiple microelectronic components. Long before the nuclear industry
