Slow ion induced electron emission from clean surfaces: relaxation paths of the kinetic and potential projectile energies

We discuss recently measured total electron yields for impact of slow singly and multiply charged ions(impact velocity below 106m/s) on atomically clean surfaces of polycrystalline gold, graphite and lithium fluoride, respectively. These studies are carried out in order to achieve a more detailed understanding of the role of potential and kinetic projectile energies and target species on slow-ion induced electron emission. Particular emphasis is given to 'subthreshold kinetic emission' where so far not much reliable data is available and some new theoretical ideas for interpretation of the present experimental results are evolving. (author)