However, 244curium is one of the more unstable curium isotopes, so any structural data obtained for compounds containing 244Cm may deviate from the expected as a result of structural damage. It has been experimentally determined that, within one day, 244CmO2's lattice parameter increases by a factor of 0.2%. This has been hypothesized to be a result of the weakening interatomic interactions between curium(IV) and the neighboring oxide groups as a result of alpha-decay. This affects the thermal conductivity of curium oxides, causing it to exponentially decrease over time as the effects of alpha-decay strengthen. Abnormal phase transitions have also been reported and have been theorized to be a result of induced self-irradiation, either by 244Cm or the presence of leftover 244Am from incomplete radioactive decay.