APPLICATIONS OF TECHNOLOGY:
- Gamma-ray radiation detection
- Security Screening
- Medical imaging
- Geological exploration
- Nuclear physics
ADVANTAGES:
- Higher light yield
- Improvement in energy resolution – approximately 2%
- Makes use of mature technology with only minor modifications
ABSTRACT:
Berkeley Lab researchers have developed a novel NaI:TI-based inorganic scintillator with higher light output and better energy resolution. The Berkeley Lab research group is using a combinatorial approach for the discovery of scintillation materials yielding the highest luminescence and lowest energy resolution. In testing, the engineered crystals of NaI:Tl attained a light output of 52,000 photons/MeV and energy resolution of 4.9% (at 662 keV). Crossing below the 5.0% energy resolution mark provides a specific direction for the development of even better future samples.
Inexpensive, commonly used NaI:TI scintillators have 50% of the market share, yet they have been unceasingly losing market presence due to their mediocre light output of 44,000 photons/MeV and 6.5% energy resolution (at 662 keV). The Berkeley Lab technology promises to recover NaI:TI-based scintillators’ market share by providing unparalleled output while maintaining low costs.
DEVELOPMENT STAGE: Tested using standard 137Cs as radioactive source; measurements done through a Hamamatsu R6231-100 PMT. Light output reached as high as 52,050 photons/MeV with energy resolution of 4.9% (at 662 keV) on small research size crystals.
STATUS: Published U. S. Patent Application #15/527,290 (Publication 2017-0355905-A1). Available for licensing or collaborative research.
SEE THESE OTHER BERKELEY LAB TECHNOLOGIES IN THIS FIELD:
High Performance, Customizable Halide Scintillators, 2013-040