Ion–surface interactions in plasma-facing material design

A multi-scale simulation framework for ion–solid interactions in plasma-exposed materials provides crucial insight into advancing fusion energy and space electric propulsion. Leveraging binary-collision approximation (BCA) simulations, the framework uniquely predicts sputter yields and analyzes material transport within volumetrically complex materials. This approach, grounded in the validated BCA code TRI3DYN, addresses key limitations in existing models by accurately capturing ion–solid interaction physics. A case study is presented, highlighting the framework’s ability to replicate experimental sputter yield results, underscoring its reliability and potential for designing durable materials in harsh plasma environments. Insights into sputtering transport phenomenology mark a significant advancement in material optimization for improved resilience in plasma-facing applications.