Needs, Trends, and Advances in Inorganic Scintillators

Abstract

This paper presents new developments in inorganic scintillators widely used for radiation detection. It addresses major emerging research topics outlining current needs for applications and material sciences issues with the overall aim to provide an up-to-date picture of the field. While the traditional forms of scintillators have been crystals and ceramics, new research on films, nanoparticles, and microstructured materials is discussed as these material forms can bring new functionality and therefore find applications in radiation detection. The last part of the contribution reports on the very recent evolutions of the most advanced theories, methods, and analyses to describe the scintillation mechanisms.

The Bright X‐Ray Stimulated Luminescence of HfO2 Nanocrystals Activated by Ti Ions

“…Regardless of the emission type—either intrinsic or extrinsic—the design of novel scintillating nanoparticles is mostly focused on optimizing their ability to efficiently convert the absorbed ionizing energy into visible (Vis) or near ultraviolet (UV) light . In this framework, the research of new strategies for defect engineering and doping is active, coupled to the unceasing investigation directed to the comprehension of the physical phenomena occurring between the host lattice and optically active centers …”

Interstitial Li+ Controls the UV Transmission and the Radiation Hardness in YAG

“…Since the first report of 1951, yttrium aluminum garnet (Y 3 Al 5 O 12 or YAG) has found numerous applications as a laser, phosphor, and scintillator host. YAG is a stable compound which can be grown by all classical methods in the form of large single crystals of high optical quality (the melting point is 1935 °C).…”

“…Because of its rather high index of refraction ( n = 1.8289 at 632.8 nm), un‐doped YAG is presently considered also as a potential Cherenkov emitter. However, the Cherenkov photons are mainly emitted in the UV range, where the optical transmission is low . High transmission in the UV and high radiation tolerance are therefore the most demanding parameters for most applications of YAG.…”

Superdense Tb3+‐activated borogermanate‐tellurite scintillating glasses

“…Scintillators, that convert the high‐energy rays, such as X‐, α‐, β‐, and γ‐rays into the visible or ultraviolet light, are currently widely used in many detection systems addressing different fields including medical imaging, high‐energy physics, homeland security, industrial control, and oil drilling exploration . In particular, scintillators with density over 5.0 g/cm 3 are preferred in high‐energy physics and medical imaging.…”

“…Because the high density of a scintillator can effectively enhance the stopping power of the incident high‐energy rays, thus improving their detection efficiencies . Scintillating glasses are one of the most promising candidates for replacing scintillating crystals thanks to the inherent superiorities of low‐cost, large‐volume production, and easy shaping of elements . Therefore, the pursuit of high‐density scintillating glasses is of significance in both the scientific and practical aspects.…”