On the observation of physical, chemical, optical and thermal changes induced by 50 MeV silicon ion in benzimidazole single crystals

The 50 MeV Si ion irradiation-induced modifications on structural, chemical, optical and thermal properties of Vertical Bridgman grown benzimidazole (BMZ) crystals have been studied. The FTIR studies have been used to analyze the variation in various bonds that are associated with the functional groups in the native and the irradiated sample. X-ray diffraction studies reveal the compressive strains that are generated due to irradiation. The effect of irradiation on the conductivity of BMZ crystals has been studied. The fluorescence spectrum shows the existence of some energy levels, which remains unaffected after irradiation. The thermal analysis reveals that the melting point remains unaffected and the sample does not decompose as a result of irradiation. (C) 2007 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.