Three measurement protocols were performed to investigate the temperature d
ependence of positron lifetime spectra for polystyrene over the temperature
range -70 to 180 degrees C. The polystyrene samples were first subjected t
o a heating schedule in sequential 10 degrees C increments. This was follow
ed by a cooling schedule, again in 10 degrees C increments. The third sched
ule involved rejuvenation of the specimen above T-g between each measuremen
t. The measured lifetime spectra were resolved into three components. We ob
served a minimum in the temperature dependence of the o-Ps intensity I-3 at
similar to 20 degrees C for polystyrene specimens subjected to the heating
and cooling schedules, but not for the rejuvenated samples. The influence
of the duration of e(+)-irradiation on the lifetime and intensity of o-Ps a
nnihilation was investigated under isothermal conditions. A decrease in o-P
s intensity I-3 with duration of exposure to e(+)-irradiation was found who
se rate was maximal at 23 degrees C. The results suggest that the time depe
ndence of the o-Ps intensity in the glass can be interpreted within the fra
mework of the spur-model. Specifically, the variation of I-3 is ascribed to
the formation at low temperature of free radicals with small electron affi
nities. After correcting for the e(+)-irradiation effect, no significant ag
ing effect in the glassy state was detected in the o-Ps intensity and lifet
ime. (C) 1999 Elsevier Science Ltd. All rights reserved.