Luminescence from Bi_2Sr_2CaCu_2O_x and YBa_2Cu_3O_(7-x) films in the scanning electron-microscope

Visible and near infrared cathodoluminescence of Bi_2Sr_2CaCu_2O_x and YBa_2Cu_3O_(7-x) films is investigated in the scanning electron microscope. In particular, possible analogies in the cathodoluminescence of both systems have been analyzed. The spectra show only minor and slightly defined common features. Low-temperature observations show the capability of the cathodoluminescence technique to detect fine structural transitions. Some transformations induced by the electron beam are described