The pulse electron emission and local changes of pyroelectric potential inlithium niobate crystals

The temperature dependence of pyroelectric potential on polar surfaces of l ithium niobate crystals has been investigated using the SEM for surface pot ential testing. Short pulses of electron emission have been observed during heating of negative surfaces (-C) from 25 to 150 degrees C, when the posit ive pyroelectric potential has been formed on the surface. More frequently the pulses were observed in the samples with the slower potential changes, i.e. in the samples with the faster relaxation of pyroelectric potential. T he results obtained have been discussed taking into account the sample defe ct structure and its effect on surface conductivity and pyroelectric potent ial inhomogeneities.