Sputter-Deposition Technology for Productivity of Low-Temperature Crystalline AI2O3 Films

Not Available Because of a fortuitous combination of high density, high light yield, and fast decay time a cerium-doped rare earth orthophosphate (REOP) crystal, Ce:LuPO4, offers an opportunity to improve detection of x-rays and gamma-rays. A new approach to high temperature solutioin (HTS) growth of CE:LuPO4 crystals is proposed. The Phase I research will test the feasibility of using a novel environmentally benign solvent to replace the lead-based flux currently used to grow such crystals. Optimization of the technique will provide not only larger and better quality crystals for x-ray and gamma-ray detection but also an opportunity to develop efficient and more compact instruments and devices. For example, it is estimated that successful completion of this research will result in a reduction of more than an order of magnitude in the number of crystals required for a PET instrument. Furthermore, the new solvent can be applied to the growth of all REOP crystals, some of which have potential application as ultraviolet, visible, and infrared lasers or as polarizers and optical isolators. Thus, the ready availability of REOP crystals should ultimately satisfy not only defense department needs but also benefit health and medical industry needs through improved instrumentation