Fast, Dense, Low Cost Scintillator for Nuclear Physics

78004S Inorganic scintillators are one of the most common detectors used in nuclear and particle physics experiments. Among the important requirements for scintillators are high light output, high sensitivity, low cost, fast response, and good stability. None of the available scintillators satisfy all these requirements. This project will investigate a new class of scintillation materials that not only are bright, fast, and dense, but also can be produced using a novel low cost approach. The proposed scintillators would become the detector of choice in current as well as next generation nuclear physics experiments (such as those being planned for the Rare Isotope Accelerator project). Phase I will demonstrate feasibility by fabricating extensively characterizing the new scintillators. Commercial Applications and Other Benefits as described by the awardee: The new scintillators should have application in nuclear and particle physics, medical imaging, homeland security, non destructive testing, geophysical exploration, environmental monitoring, and materials studies.