Optical absorption and photoconductivity in unstable azides. Part 2.—Lead azide

Abstract

Thin films of lead azide were prepared by solid state reaction between thin films of lead halides and alkali metal azides. X-ray and electron diffraction studies show that a mixture of α- and β-lead azide is formed as a reaction product. Optical absorption and photoconductivity were measured in the wavelength range 1900–7000 Å at 298 and 100 K, and the presence of several exciton peaks was detected. Close correspondence exists between photocurrent and optical spectrum. The results are analyzed in terms of an electron energy band structure.