New Bright High Resolution Scintillators

80613S06 Proliferation of the weapons of mass destruction such as nuclear weapons is a serious threat in the world today. Gamma-ray detectors are an important component of systems used to prevent nuclear proliferation. However, the performance of such systems is currently limited by the characteristics of available gamma-ray sensors. This project will investigate a new class of scintillators with the potential to provide very high light output, fast response, high efficiency, and excellent energy resolution. Phase I involved a systematic investigation of the new class of scintillators and identified compositions that are promising for further optimization. Single crystals of the proposed scintillators were grown and their scintillation performance was evaluated by measuring energy resolution and proportionality. Excellent results were obtained and feasibility was demonstrated. In Phase II, the promising compositions identified in Phase I will be optimized. Larger crystals of selected compositions will be grown, and their performance will be extensively characterized. A gamma-ray spectroscopy system based on the proposed detector also will be developed. Commercial Applications and Other Benefits as descrbed by the awardee: In addition to scientific uses in nuclear non-proliferation, the new scintillators should be commercially applicable to nuclear, high energy, and space physics experiments; medical imaging; homeland defense; geological exploration; industrial imaging; X-ray instrumentation; and materials analysis.