An unusual electron trapping site in the crystal structure of dulcitol

Electrons are trapped in intermolecular voids in single crystals of dulcitol X-irradiated at low temperature. The hyperfine interactions between the trapped electron and the protons of the hydroxy groups which form the trap suggest a highly symmetrical arrangement of two hydroxy groups in apposition. On the basis of this consideration the site in the crystal structure where trapping occurs was identified. In a parallel approach the crystal structure of dulcitol was surveyed for a suitable void encompassing a positive potential. The latter approach confirmed the same site in the crystal structure as the electron trapping site.