Comments on electric field experiments of positronium formation

Validity of using static electric field in studying Ps formation mechanism is tested experimentally. At the present experimental condition, Ps intensity in low-density polyethylene was decreased seemingly in a similar way as a function of the strength of static and alternating electric fields. However, a time-dependent screening effect, possibly caused by accumulated charge, was apparent. By using an alternating field, it was possible to eliminate the screening effect. It is highly recommended to use alternating fields in the forthcoming electric field experiments. In another experiment, while applying alternating electric field, PAL was measured only when the polarity was positive or negative with respect to the positron implantation trajectory. The results showed that positive and negative fields have the same effect, indicating that the structure of terminal positron spur is symmetric, unlike the asymmetric structure at the end of muon track. (C) 2003 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.