Auger decay in dispersing and absorbing environments

Abstract

We develop a quantum-optical description of Auger decay, which is an ultrafast, high-energy autoionization process, on the basis of macroscopic quantum electrodynamics. One consequence of this perspective is a simple analytical formula for the free-space Auger rate which we compare with available rates of the F-like isoelectronic sequence. More importantly, the formalism enables us to study the Auger decay in different dispersing and absorbing environments. We show that in contrast to common assumptions the Auger rate can be influenced by an environment, presenting two simple examples, namely a dielectric surface and a surrounding bulk medium.