Radiation chemistry of ices of planetological interest at low temperature

Adv Space Res. 1995;16(2):61-71. doi: 10.1016/0273-1177(95)00194-j.

Abstract

We present the results of recent experiments on some physico-chemical effects induced by fast ion colliding with solids of relevance for the physics of planetary objects. The production of molecular solids, polymer-like materials and amorphous carbon by irradiation of frozen hydrocarbons and pentacene is discussed. We also report on a set of experimental results obtained irradiating methanol and water-methanol mixtures. Because of bombardment different species form. The techniques used for the analysis are "in situ" infrared (IR) and Raman spectroscopy. The experimental results are finally discussed in the light of their relevance for planetary physics.

Publication types

  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't

MeSH terms

  • Cosmic Dust / analysis
  • Ice / analysis*
  • Ions
  • Meteoroids*
  • Methanol / chemistry
  • Methanol / radiation effects
  • Polycyclic Aromatic Hydrocarbons / chemical synthesis*
  • Polycyclic Aromatic Hydrocarbons / chemistry*
  • Polycyclic Aromatic Hydrocarbons / radiation effects
  • Protons*
  • Radiochemistry
  • Spectroscopy, Fourier Transform Infrared
  • Spectrum Analysis, Raman
  • Water / chemistry

Substances

  • Cosmic Dust
  • Ice
  • Ions
  • Polycyclic Aromatic Hydrocarbons
  • Protons
  • Water
  • Methanol