Thermally stimulated current from extended-chain crystals of polyethylene

Thermally stimulated current (TSC) has been observed in extended-chain crystals of polyethylene above room temperature. The TSC spectra exhibit two current peaks of opposite polarity. The peaks were separated into separate components by curve fitting. The position of the negative peak, which appears at 123°C, is independent of charging conditions. The positive current increases after γ irradiation or aging of the samples.