Evidence for "Thermal Spikes" in the Alpha-Particle Radiolysis of Nitrate Crystals

Abstract

Yields were determined for the decomposition of several alkali nitrate crystals by Po210 [alpha]-particles and compared with yields for decomposition by gamma-rays, X-rays, and UV light at several temperatures. There is a pronounced effect of LET; the effect of increasing LET (gamma-rays to [alpha]-particles) roughly parallels that produced by increased temperature in the decomposition by radiations of low LET. It is suggested that, in addition to the high concentration of intermediates, the high temperature in heavy-particle tracks (thermal spikes) may be an important factor in determining the track effect (LET effect).