Optimization of Scintillators for Enhanced Performance through Materials Engineering

The goal of this program is low-cost production of large-volume radiation detector scintillators with enhanced-medium energy resolution of 2-3%, at costs approaching those of medium energy resolution detectors such as CsI. To achieve this goal, a two pronged approach will be pursued. First, we will employ materials engineering tools to improve the performance of an existing scintillator. Second, an innovative large scale growth process will be developed to both produce this superior scintillator in volumes larger than what is possible with current crystal growth methods, and to substantially reduce the production cost of the scintillators. The cumulative effect of the two approaches promises to provide a low-cost, high performance scintillator that would change the landscape of radiation detection market. The developed scintillators will be demonstrated in handheld Radio Isotope Identification Devices (RIIDs) as well as mobile and stationary radiation detection systems.