Journal of Polymer Science · 1958 · 117 citations · 3 references
EngineeringMaterials EngineeringMaterials ScienceRadiation DetectionRadiation PhysicsRadiation TransportDielectricsElectron TransportHigh-dose Radiation EffectsRadiation Damage In MaterialsRadiation Interaction With MatterRadiation Transport In MatterElectron Beam Irradiation EffectsIrradiation DamageIrradiation EffectsPolymer Radiation DamageRadiation Damage MechanismsRadiation EffectsSpace Charge DistributionSpace-charge Layers
Abstract Samples of methyl methacrylate were irradiated with 2‐m.e.v. electrons. Stopping and trapping of the incident electrons in the dielectric leads to the formation of a negative space charge. Under proper conditions the electric field of this charge can produce breakdown accompanied by the appearance of a characteristic discharge pattern. The nature of this effect is discussed. It is shown that the bulk of the space charge is concentrated in a narrow layer at a depth corresponding to the effective range of the electron beam. The quantity of charge released during breakdown is measured for various doses and compared with the value of the intercepted charge.
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