X-ray and electron emission from peeling adhesive tape

In the past years, x-ray emission from adhesive tape peeled in vacuum has been reported and investigated. The generation of x rays is driven by fast electrons generated by the tape, similar to triboluminescence. However, most studies focused on electron–solid interactions near the detachment point of the tape. By introducing a defined target material into the setup, we show that produced electrons can escape the direct environment of their generation and propagate for distances in the order of centimeters. Furthermore, the spatial distribution of electron energies is studied using characteristic x rays from the metal target as a probe, revealing a non-homogeneous spatial distribution of the electron energies. We use simulations to reproduce this energy dispersion based on the electrostatic field of the tape. The field influences especially lower energy electron trajectories, altering the point of interaction with surrounding solids. This energy selectivity opens up the possibility to control the x-ray energy of this source.