Spectroscopic properties of novel fluorescent nuclear track detectors for high and low LET charged particles

Abstract

A new optical, non-destructive method of detecting and imaging individual heavy charged particle tracks using fluorescent nuclear track detectors (FNTD) is investigated as a possible spectroscopic technology for heavy charged particles of low and high linear energy transfer (LET). The technique uses new luminescent aluminum oxide single crystals having aggregate oxygen vacancy defects and doped with Mg ( Al 2 O 3 : C , Mg ) in combination with laser scanning confocal fluorescence microscopy. Spectroscopic capabilities of this new method were demonstrated for energetic heavy ions of LET ∞ H 2 O ranging from 2.2 to 8767 keV / μ m . The new technology is intended for use in neutron detection and dosimetry, proton and heavy ion radiobiology, and space radiation dosimetry as well as in nuclear and particle physics research.