Mechanisms of Energy Loss of Fast Electrons (1-100 keV) in Semiconductors and Dielectrics and Their Impact on Efficiency of Cathodoluminophores

Abstract

The processes of energy loss by electrons in semiconductors and dielectrics are complex and not fully understood to date. These processes determine the mean pair-creation energy. Its value is important for many technical applications such as scintillators, betavoltaics, cathodoluminescence, etc. The main channels of energy losses can be as follows: impact ionization, excitation of collective oscillations of high energy (plasmons) or low energy (phonons).