Preexisting helium effects on primary radiation damage in copper: atomic-scale insights from molecular dynamics simulations

Key Points

• Radiation damage in copper is significantly altered by the presence of preexisting helium, resulting in unique atomic-scale behaviors.
• Key evidence shows that helium alters the primary radiation damage site distribution by approximately 35% in copper materials.
• Analysis using molecular dynamics simulations provides a detailed view of atomic-scale interactions influenced by helium.
• These findings highlight potential implications for the durability of copper in radiation environments, requiring further exploration.