Waveshifters and Scintillators for Ionizing Radiation Detection

70702 High energy physics research continues to require higher flux rates and radiation levels to probe the nature of matter. Advanced scintillating materials are needed as an important tool in this research. The materials must be able to sustain high count rates and be highly resistant to radiation damage. This project will investigate and develop a new generation of scintillating fluors for use in fabricating new plastic scintillation materials and waveshifting optical fibers. In Phase I, new long wavelength emitting wave shifting fluors will be characterized and tested for radiation hardness. The best of these will be incorporated into optical fibers and tested in combination with plastic scintillating tiles to demonstrate feasibility for use in future particle physics applications. Commercial Applications and Other Benefits as described by the awardee: In addition to advancing high energy physics research, the new materials also hold promise for developing detection devices of particular use in homeland security for sensing radioactive materials and smuggled goods in baggage and large containers such as trucks and ocean going shipping containers. There is also potential use for dose measurement in radiotherapy.