Positron thermalization as quantum statistical process

Abstract

AbstractThe positron thermalization process is considered by the non‐equilibrium statistical operator method. Kinetic equations describing the slowing‐down of the fast positrons are given in the second order of the positron–medium interaction. Thermalization with account of the positron–phonon scattering is analyzed in detail in that case when the phonon subsystem may be in the non‐equilibrium state. Estimations show that in metals the positrons can be completely thermalize ed due to positron–phonon interaction even at very low temperatures – up to liquid helium temperature.