Deterioration of the 2G HTS tapes by the Ne+ ions irradiation (250 keV)

•High-temperature superconducting (HTS) tapes were exposed to high-energy Ne+ beam simulating operation in heavy radiation environment.•Although critical temperatures were hardly affected, the superconducting currents were decreased by at least 30%.•Comprehensive research, including structural, microstructural and electronic structure studies, indicates the mechanisms responsible for deterioration of HTS tapes.•Oxygen depletion and exfoliating of superconducting layer due to irradiation were recognized as the crucial mechanisms of deterioration.