Electric Fields in keV Electron Irradiated Polymers

Abstract
Electric fields due to irradiation by 2-20 keV electrons in polyethylene terephthalate are calculated. Peak fields exceeding 106 V/cm are predicted and would be expected in nearly all highly insulating polymers. Secondary bremsstrahlung and x-ray effects are investigated. Electrode current as a function of time is calculated during constant intensity irradiation. Application to spacecraft charging and effects due to solar uV are described.