Transmission positron images using imaging plates

Abstract

As an image recording medium for transmission positron microscopes, imaging plates are quite useful and powerful. Imaging plates are also quite sensitive and the photon-stimulated luminescence (PSL) is linearly proportional to the positron intensity in six digits (10 6). No bulky or expensive equipment is necessary to accommodate in vacuum. Imaging plates can be set under bright lights, this is different from the photographic films. Darkness is only required during exposure and transfer to a reader. Slow Positron Facility at KEK, Japan was used to study the effect of “mono-chromatic” positron beam. Specimens were set just in front of an imaging plate. After a certain time of exposure, the imaging plates were processed by a reader. Used imaging plates can be used repeatedly after erased by ultra-violet lights. Images through samples can be obtained. Similar experiments using non-monochromatic (white) positrons and electrons have been performed at Teikyo University of Science and Technology (TUST) and Research Reactor Institute, Kyoto Univ. (RRI). Sealed 22Na positron source can be conveniently used for non-destructive tests.