High Resolution Gamma Ray Spectrometer for Nuclear Physics

Scintillation spectrometers, which consist of inorganic scintillation crystals coupled to photomultiplier tubes, are an important element of nuclear and elementary particle physics experiments. However, the performance of the detection systems used in these experiments is often limited by the properties of presently available scintillators. This project will investigate the use of a new scintillator material, which appears to be very promising due to its high light output, fast response, and excellent energy and timing resolution. Phase I was aimed at demonstrating the feasibility of applying the new scintillation material towards gamma ray spectroscopy. Single crystals of the proposed scintillator were grown, and their scintillation performance was evaluated. During Phase II, larger crystals will be grown and evaluated for gamma-ray spectroscopy and nuclear physics experimentation. The physical and optical properties of the crystals will be measured, followed by detailed evaluation of scintillation properties, and of energy and timing resolution. Also, prototype crystals will be characterized in a nuclear physics experimental setting. Commercial Applications and other Benefits as described by the awardee: Over and above the scientific use in nuclear, high energy, and space physics experiments, the new scintillator should be commercially applicable to medical imaging, non-destructive testing, geological exploration, X-ray instrumentation, and materials analysis