Bulk Composite Materials for Detection of Gamma Radiation

The objective of this proposal is to develop enabling technologies for the production of bulk scintillating nanocomposites that have the gamma radiation detection properties of single crystal NaI but with the manufacturability of plastic scintillators. These performance criteria may be met by developing nanoparticle polymer composites with ultra-high nanoparticle loadings levels in matrix with a high stopping power. This increased stopping power from the polymer matrix will allow for more flexibility in the required nanoparticle loading level to obtain sufficient nanocomposite stopping power. At the end of this program, Tetramer will have developed a platform technology which is capable of producing a wide range of nanocomposites with applications across many markets including radiation detection, medical imaging, and optical materials for lasers.