Numerical analysis of thermoluminescence data for a quasi-continuous activation energy distribution (glass-rubber transition analysis)

The authors describe a numerical technique for analysing thermoluminescence data when the thermoluminescence process involves a quasi-continuous distribution of activation energies, and first-order kinetics. The technique proceeds by synthesis of glow curves, isothermal decay plots and thermal quenching cycles until agreement with the experimental data is obtained. A possible method of documenting the spread of glass-to-rubber transition temperatures in organic polymers by analysis of thermoluminescence data in the appropriate temperature region is discussed.