Positron decay in polymers: Molecular weight dependence in polystyrene

The decay time τ_l ofo-Ps by the electron pickoff process has been measured in polystyrene as a function of molecular weight. For samples below their glass transition temperature τ_l is essentially independent of . In the low molecular weight region, , τ_l increased with decreasing in line with earlier theoretical predictions. The overall behaviour reflects closely the dependence of free volume on . The effects of molecular motion on τ_l are examined and it is concluded that the decay time is insensitive to such motions in polystyrene below the melting point, in contrast to what is observed in polytetrafluoroethylene.