The radiation-induced chemistry in solid xenon matrices

The paper presents an overview of recent studies of the radiation-chemical transformations of guest molecules in solid xenon induced by fast electrons and x-ray irradiation. Specific features of the experimental approach based on the combination of matrix isolation IR and EPR spectroscopy are briefly outlined (with a particular emphasis on monoisotopic and isotopically enriched xenon matrices). The results reveal rich and diverse radiation-induced chemistry in solid xenon, which is considered in the following major aspects: (1) matrix-induced and matrix-assisted transformations of the primary guest radical cations; (2) production and dynamics of hydrogen atoms; (3) formation of xenon hydrides. Finally, preliminary results on the radiation-induced generation of oxygen atoms and ions in solid xenon are presented.