Principles of positron porosimetry

The paper deals with positron porosimetry (PP), which is based on positron annihilation lifetime spectroscopy (PALS). The numerical analysis of positron lifetime spectra for PP is more demanding than in most of other applications of PALS. The resulting intensity distributions of ortho-positronium (o-Ps) lifetimes are interpreted in terms of the extended Tao-Eldrup (ETE) model, which provides the dependence between the o-Ps lifetime and pore size. Additionally, the relation between the intensity of an o-Ps component and the pore volume allows obtaining pore size distribution (PSD). The value of the empirical parameter Δ, which is dependent on material, can be estimated from the temperature dependence of an o-Ps lifetime. The most unique feature of PP among other techniques that allow determination of PSDs is its ability to perform measurements in almost any conditions. This makes this method suitable for various in situ studies. In this review article, both the capabilities and the limitations of PP are discussed. The methods to overcome some of the limitations are presented.