Non-isothermal decomposition of periodates and influence of γ-radiation

Thermal decomposition of sodium, potassium and barium periodates and the influence of γ-radiation to a dose of 100 Mrad have been studied thermogravimetrically. The rate of decomposition is markedly influenced by radiation in the case of KIO4, whereas the effect is less pronounced in the other two systems. In irradiated sodium and potassium periodates an initial stage of linear decomposition was observed at lower temperatures implying negligible energy of activation. Activation energies were calculated by using Coats-Redfern first-order equation in all cases. (author)