Simple model for pyroelectric luminescence

A typical mode of pyroelectric luminescence (PEL) consists of repeated bursts of light, with the intensity and repetition rate of the light pulses dependent on properties of the crystal, rate of its temperature change, and characteristics of the ambient atmosphere. We treat this luminescence pattern by employing the balance equation of charge at the crystal surface. We include generation of the surface charge by temperature change of the spontaneous polarization and the compensation of this charge by intrinsic as well as extrinsic electrical conductivity of the crystal. Good agreement is obtained between the model and the measured PEL of an N-isopropylcarbazole single crystal.