ESR and lyoluminescence measurements on Tris(hydroxymethyl)aminomethane

Electron spin resonance (ESR) and lyoluminescence (LL) measurements on Tris(hydroxymethyl)aminomethane have been carried out at different gamma exposures. The ESR spectral studies indicate the formation of two free radical species. The radical species formed at low dose range is responsible for LL emission and the second radical species formed at high exposure range inhibits the LL process. Studies on the effect of radical scavengers and oxygen on LL output also show that free radicals produced are the principal causative agents for the lyoluminescence and that oxygen is one of the reactants. (orig.)