Electrizaton and cathodoluminescence of single crystal MgO under 2.5 – 15 keV electron beam

Abstract

Kinetics of single crystal MgO electrization showed a delay in the surface potential establishment. A number of processes taking place in the surface electrization and, in their turn, influenced by it, are discussed: secondary electron emission, accumulated charge distribution and spreading in the sample, modification of defects in the sample by the electron beam. The evolution of cathodoluminescence spectra was recorded during the irradiation process, showing both increases and decreases in intensity. A synergetic effect was suggested to explain the subthreshold generation of defects by the electron beam.