Compton Current and Polarization in Gamma-Irradiated Dielectrics

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Abstract
Attenuation of a directional flux of gamma radiation in a solid dielectric is accompanied by the production of Compton current and space-charges. Under proper conditions the space-charge field can be high enough to produce breakdown. A phenomenological theory of these effects is developed, which is based on Compton current theory and experimental results of breakdown-induced charge release in glass. It takes into account space-charge formation due to the trapping of high-energy Compton electrons and persistent internal polarization associated with the production of electron-hole pairs by low-energy secondary electrons.