For example, helium atoms produced by a -decay, and Xe atoms from fission events, must be accommodated safely by the host glass. In addition, ionizing radiation from beta decay could affect the transport of fission gasses.
Implantation allows simulation of bubble nucleation and growth in a relatively short period of time.
The electron beam of the TEM simulates the ionizing irradiation produced by beta decay. The importance of ionization can be determined by comparing bubble growth in areas that were under continuous observation with those that were not. Two representative areas are shown in the figure. Note that the bubble density is the same in the two areas, but bubble growth is much faster under electron irradiation. The nucleation process remains unaffected, while fission gas migration appears enhanced.