Abstract
It is shown by computation that the field of electrets ought to be completely shielded by the ions present in the atmosphere. Experimental evidence available at this time is in apparent contradiction with this conclusion. Some points that might help in clarifying this difficulty are discussed. In view of the fact that the electret field persists in spite of the ions present, the use of electrets in discharge tubes or in any case in high vacuum tubes is suggested. In order to achieve this purpose, the making of electrets of relatively high softening point appears to be the next necessary step in research.

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