The role of stable free radicals in the radiation-induced conductivity of low-density polyethylene

The radiation-induced conductivity (RIC) of low-density polyethylene (LDPE) under continuous irradiation with fast electrons (50 keV) was experimentally studied. The dose dependence of the concentration of stable paramagnetic centers was determined. The kinetics of RIC in LDPE was calculated on the basis of the Rose-Fowler-Vaisberg (RFV) model taking into account the buildup of radiation-induced traps. Good correlation between the experimental results and calculated data was found.