The phenomenon of pyroelectric luminescence

Abstract Characteristics of spontaneous light emission that occurs from pyroelectric crystals when the temperature is varied are reported. Data pertaining to the spectral, spatial, and temporal resolution of this luminescence are given, and a theory accounting for some of the characteristics is described. It is concluded that the luminescence results from charge carrier recombination on the surface and from dielectric breakdown of the ambient atmosphere. It is important to identify the source and mechanism of this luminescence because these materials have a potential for use as heat sensors.