Exoelectron emission accompanying the phase transformations in the AgI-type superionic conductors

Abstract

Results of experimental investigations of the photostimulated exoelectron emission (EEE) accompanying the polymorphic phase changes in some superionic conductors (silver, copper and mercury iodides) are reported for the first time. The measurements of the temperature dependence of the intensity of photostimulated EEE were performed in air at atmospheric pressure, the (exo)electrons being detected with an open air point-counter with saturated ethanol quenching vapour. The DTA control measurements were performed at the same heating and/or cooling rate. A comparison of the results of the EEE and DTA measurements shows clearly that the polymorphic phase transitions and melting of investigated materials are accompanied by an enhancement (peak) of the EEE intensity. This enables the detection of the phase transformations in inorganic compounds by the EEE technique.