Fundamental processes of radiation energy storage in KDP (KH2PO4) and ADP (NH4H2PO4) crystals

The paper presents the results of a study of radiation energy storage, radiation effects, and radiation induced changes of optical properties in crystals KH2PO4 (KDP), (NH4)H2PO4 (ADP), and crystals KDP doped with either deuterium (KDP : D) or Cr (KDP : Cr). Both the X-rays and H + (0.71 MeV ), He + (4.6 and 27 MeV ), N + (16 MeV ) ion beams were used for irradiation of the crystals studied. Optical absorption spectra of KDP were measured after irradiation with various H+ ion beam doses, and accumulation of the radiation-induced defects was estimated. Considerations of the radiation effects in these crystals under irradiation with the ion beams were made taking into account the results of Monte Carlo simulations using the TRIM computer codes. Using the experimental and theoretical results the paper discusses the similarities and differences of these crystals with respect to radiation hardness and the processes of radiation energy storage.