In situ diffusion measurements in solids using short-lived radioactive tracers of 8Li and 20Na

We are developing in situ diffusion measurements in solids using short-lived radioactive ion beams provided from an isotope separator on-line (ISOL). We examined the feasibility of a new in situ nanoscale diffusion measurement method using a radioactive Li-8 tracer by computer simulations. Under moderate experimental conditions, we have found that the detection limit of lithium diffusion coefficient can be improved to a low value of 1 x 10(-12) cm(2)/s. Also, in situ sodium diffusion measurement in Na battery materials can be applicable using a radioactive Na-20 tracer. We found Na diffusion coefficients can be measured, ranging from 10(-6) to 10(-10) cm(2)/s by computer simulations. (C) 2013 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.