On TSD in PVDF in the temperature range -60 degrees C to 165 degrees C. I

Thin films of polyvinylidene fluoride in crystal form II have been subjected to detailed thermally stimulated discharge (TSD) studies. The poling parameters were varied systematically up to a poling field of 600 kV cm -1 , a poling temperature of 130 degrees C and a poling time of 30 min. Five TSD peaks were observed in the temperature range from -60 degrees C to 165 degrees C. Two of these peaks seem to be of dipolar origin, while two are probably caused by space charge. The fifth peak is attributed to premelting of the sample. It is suggested that the folds in the molecular chains are of importance to both the dipolar and the space charge relaxation.