RADIATION MODIFICATION OF IONIC CONDUCTORS BASED ON BARIUM CERATE: THE EFFECT OF ION IMPLANTATION ON STRUCTURE AND CONDUCTIVITY

This paper examines the effect of helium ion implantation on the properties of proton conductors based on barium cerate (BaCeO₃). The crystal structure, proton conductivity mechanisms, and chemical stability of the materials are investigated. It is shown that doping with rare earth elements increases the concentration of oxygen vacancies, improving conductivity. The effect of ion irradiation is analyzed in terms of changes in the defect structure, the formation of new oxygen vacancies, and their effect on the electrophysical properties of the material. Experimental studies using thermal desorption spectroscopy and electrochemical impedance spectroscopy confirm the modification of the conductive characteristics of the samples. The data obtained indicate the promise of using ion implantation to improve the stability of ion-conducting materials in solid oxide fuel cells.