Thermally stimulated luminescence and conductivity - Theoretical models and their applicability to experimental results

In this paper computational glow curves are presented for commonly used mod els by varying the various parameters in the respective models. The charact eristics of the computed glow curves are discussed in the following aspects : (i) temperature of maximum intensity, (ii) shape of the glow curve, (iii) kinetics order b, in particular the relevance of non-integral order and th e condition causing it, (iv) pre-exponential factor s' and its dimensions, (v) possible relationship of empirical parameters (b and s') with the physi cal parameters, (vi) growth of intensity as a function of trap occupancy, ( vii) pre-dose sensitization, (viii) applicability of different models to ex perimental results from some commonly studied materials, (ix) role of trapp ing/untrapping transitions and other physico-chemical processes during ther mal stimulation of emission and (x) relevance of computerized fitting and d econvolution of experimentally obtained glow curves. The results of the stu dy show that in general the glow peaks shift their position and undergo cha nge in their shape when the trap occupancy (dose) is changed. The exception s to this general behaviour occur only when the applicable value of kinetic order b is 1 at all trap occupancies. These theoretical glow curve behavio urs are discussed in the perspective of those observed experimentally in mo st materials. It is concluded that among the various models in vogue, it is only the interactive trap system model which is commensurate with the expe rimental observations.