Thermally stimulated depolarization currents in gamma-irradiated beta-spodumene solid solution ceramic

Abstract

Thermally stimulated depolarization currents (TSDC) in unirradiated and gamma -irradiated press prepared beta -spodumene solid solution ceramic have been investigated within the wide temperature range 20-160 degreesC. Doses in the range 10-10(5) Gy were used. The TSDC spectrum at relatively high polarizing fields shows two relaxation peaks whose positions and intensities depend on the polarization conditions and gamma -doses. Discussion of data is given on the basis that dipolar and space-charge polarization coexist in the used ceramic material. Activation energies for space-charge peak are determined from the initial rise of thermal current peak under different gamma -doses. Aging effect clearify that the longer the aging time, the smaller the polarization. Pyroelectric current data provide further support to space charge effects. (C) 2001 Kluwer Academic Publishers.