Formation of interstitial atoms in surface layers of helium-implanted tungsten

Using a method of field ion microscopy, the atomic structure of surface and near-surface layers of a perfect dislocation-free tungsten irradiated by helium ions with energies below the threshold of displacement was studied. We have found the output of tungsten atoms from the bulk as a result of their displacement from regular lattice positions occupied by implanted helium atoms and the formation of interstitial tungsten atoms. It is shown that high concentrations of helium and the presence of image forces have a considerable effect on the development of these processes. Depleted zones consisting of helium-vacancy complexes are revealed within the irradiated near-surface layer.