The influence of residual gas pressures on the degradation of ZnS powder phosphors

Phosphor powder of ZnS:Cu,Al,Au has been subjected to electron bombardment (2 keV, 2 mA/cm(2)) in residual gas pressures ranging from 0.6X 10(-8) to 7.0X 10(-8) Torr. Auger electron spectroscopy and cathodoluminescence (CL), both excited by the same electron beam, were used to monitor changes in the surface chemistry and cathodoluminescent brightness versus vacuum conditions during electron bombardment. A direct correlation between the surface reactions and the degradation of CL brightness was observed. The formation of a nonluminescent ZnO layer on the surface of the phosphor was largely responsible for the degradation of the ZnS. The aging of the phosphor was not only a function of the charge per unit area (Coulomb dose) bombarding the surface, but also a function of residual gas pressure and composition. In particular, H2O had the greatest effect on the rate of degradation. The results are interpreted in terms of an electron-beam stimulated surface chemical reaction. (C) 1998 American Institute of Physics.