Unstable intermediates. Part LXXXIX. E.s.r. detection of paramagnetic centres formed in solids by explosive shock

Abstract

A range of inorganic materials has been subjected to explosive shock and then studied at room temperature and 77 K by e.s.r. spectroscopy. The results are compared with those for materials exposed to γ-rays and, for selected materials, to neutrons. No correlation is apparent.

In several materials, previously unknown centres were formed. That in silica, which was formed in remarkably high yield, consisted of a very narrow line at g= 2·000, with satellite features in the wings. In other compounds, the e.s.r. signals from impurity centres, such as Mn²⁺, were greatly modified by shocking. In addition in almost all materials, a generalised absorption spreading from low-field to beyond 7000 G at X-band was detected. These results are discussed in terms of possible damage processes.