Published online by Cambridge University Press: 25 February 2011
Nickel substrates were coated with a thin Sn film and implanted with 100 keV Xe+ to fluences between 3 and 7.1015 ions/cm2. Surface chemistry changes were monitored using Auger and Mfssbauer spectroscopies. By comparing between profiles of un-implanted and implanted specimens, it was found that ion implantation through the film caused Ni to move into the Sn film and Sn to penetrate into the Ni substrate. The Mdssbauer analysis disclosed the presence of new surface phases. A substantial increase in the tarnishing resistance of Ni was found by using this treatment.