${\hbox{SrI}}_{2}{:}{\hbox{Eu}}^{2+}$-Scintillators for Spectroscopy and X-Ray Imaging Applications

Abstract

Much work is going on presently to improve the crystal growth and packaging of the Eu2+ activated SrI2 scintillator, thanks to its excellent scintillation properties like high light yield and good energy resolution. Larger crystals are needed for spectroscopic applications, and proper packaging is important for long-time field use and application in other areas due to its hygroscopic nature. In this paper, we report on the successful growth of a SrI2:Eu [6 mol%] single crystal in silica ampoule to prevent melt hydration and oxygen contamination using the vertical Bridgman technique. The scintillation properties of a 0.314 cm3 SrI2:Eu sample are presented, showing a light output of ~80 000 ph/MeV . A 360 μm sample was investigated for X-ray imaging applications; we also show how the sample was prepared for the measurement and the result of this preliminary investigation.