The influence of the ambient atmosphere on the TSEE of ceramic BeO

In view of the application of the thermally stimulated exoelectron emission (TSEE) of ceramic BeO for radiation dosimetry, an encapsulation with different atmospheres is simulated for the purpose of studying its influence on TSEE. In particular, it is shown that the exoelectron yield at the same exposure condition strongly depends on the water admission to the dried atmosphere. Moreover it is stated that there is a distinction whether the break-in of air humidity took place after or before the γ-irradiation. The detailed surface processes leading to these changes in TSEE are discussed. (author)