Rate spectra of small deformations in solids

The method of constructing the temperature dependence for the rate of small creep deformation (strain-rate spectra) is applied to determine relaxation transitions in solids. This method is based on precision measurements of the rate using a laser interferometer and is distinguished by its high resolution. The possibility of using the spectra for predicting critical temperatures in the fracture kinetics of polymers and metals, as well as changes in the electrical properties (for example, the superconducting transition in Y-Ba-Cu-O ceramics) is pointed out. Fiz. Tverd. Tela (St. Petersburg) 41, 848–850 (May 1999)