When evaluating a plastic scintillator material as an EJ-200 alternative, compare the finished component and readout as well as the material properties. ATR-P200 is a candidate for sample evaluation, not an automatically interchangeable replacement. Define the required light response, timing, attenuation and geometry, then compare samples with the intended optical coupling and electronics.
ATR Crystal supplies ATR-P200 fast plastic scintillator for particle counters, cosmic-ray detectors and drawing-defined components. The comparison below separates reported material properties from the checks needed to approve a replacement for a particular detector.
What to Compare When Selecting an EJ-200 Alternative
An EJ-200-equivalent requirement should identify the properties that matter to the detector. Rise time, decay time, light output, emission characteristics and attenuation length describe different parts of the material response. Similar values in one category do not establish the same performance in every detector geometry.
For a compact counter, sensor coupling and signal threshold may be central to the evaluation. For a long bar or large panel, light collection and response variation across the active area also need attention. State the required acceptance criteria alongside the finished dimensions.
ATR-P200 vs. EJ-200: Reported Properties
| Property | ATR-P200 | EJ-200 Reference | Selection Note |
|---|---|---|---|
| Rise time | 0.9 ns | 0.9 ns | The listed material rise times match. Complete detector timing also depends on geometry, sensor and electronics. |
| Decay time | 2.4 ns | 2.1 ns | The reported decay times differ. Evaluate against the timing requirement of the application. |
| Refractive index | 1.58 | 1.58 | Review the coupling material, sensor window and readout-face geometry. |
| Emission characteristics | Broad emission peak region reported as 395–425 nm | Maximum emission at 425 nm | A reported peak region and a single peak wavelength are different descriptions. Compare the spectrum with the selected photosensor response. |
| Attenuation length | Reported as >2 m; example cosmic-ray fit: 2.44 m | 3.8 m | These figures are not from a controlled test of both materials under identical conditions. |
| Light output relative to anthracene | Reported as ≥66% | 64% | Test conditions and optical readout affect the comparison. The reported values alone do not establish higher output in the finished detector. |
| Softening temperature | 75–80°C | 75°C | Softening temperature is not a recommended continuous operating temperature for an assembled detector. |
The ATR-P200 figures are reported material information. The EJ-200 column contains published reference specifications. This comparison is a starting point for selection, rather than a test certificate for an individual supplied batch.
What the 2.44 m Attenuation Result Describes
The ATR-P200 material information includes a cosmic-ray attenuation test using a sample measuring 5 cm × 5 cm × 80 cm. The reported fit gave an attenuation length of 2.44 m.
The 80 cm dimension identifies the tested sample. It is not a statement of maximum production length or a guarantee for every panel. For a longer optical path, define the finished geometry, sensor positions, reflector and coupling method before agreeing on acceptance tests.
A useful evaluation measures the signal at several positions using the same detector assembly and threshold. If an EJ-200 reference sample is available, use comparable dimensions, surface treatment and readout conditions so that the result reflects the material change as closely as possible.
Specifying Panels, Bars and Detector Components
For an ATR-P200 quotation, send a dimensioned drawing and identify the required finished component. Plate, panel, bar and block geometries can be reviewed, with available dimensions, machining details and assembly scope confirmed before quotation.
| Component Requirement | Information to Provide |
|---|---|
| Panel or plate | Length, width, thickness, active area, tolerances and whether one-piece construction is mandatory. |
| Bar or trigger component | Cross-section, length, readout faces, sensor positions and mounting constraints. |
| Drawing-defined shape | Complete geometry, edge features, optical surfaces and dimensional acceptance criteria. |
| Optical treatment | Bare polished material, reflector, light-tight wrapping, coupling interface and housing requirements. |
| Sample evaluation | Requested sample geometry, quantity, surface condition and proposed measurement arrangement. |
For cosmic-ray projects, read our plastic scintillator panel guide for muon detection alongside the material comparison. For other structures and radiation applications, see the plastic scintillator selection guide.
Sample Checks Before Approving a Replacement Material
A replacement decision should use the requirements of the actual instrument. Ask about sample availability and agree on the evaluation conditions before ordering production components.
- Signal response: define the source or particle, measurement positions, sensor model and electronics settings.
- Timing: specify the measurement method and the required timing result for the complete detector.
- Response uniformity: agree on the points measured across a panel or along a bar and the permitted variation.
- Mechanical condition: define tolerances, surface finish, edge condition and permitted visible defects.
- Optical assembly: identify reflector, wrapping and coupling materials used during the test.
Keep the proposed material identity and agreed specifications in the quotation and order documentation. If the project requires original EJ-200 by name, state that requirement explicitly when requesting a quotation.
Request a Quote for ATR-P200 Plastic Scintillator
Email sales@atrscintillator.com with your drawing, quantity and application. Include:
- Required panel, bar or custom component dimensions.
- The EJ-200 properties or detector acceptance criteria that must be met.
- PMT or SiPM model, placement and coupling arrangement.
- Surface finish, reflector and light-tight wrapping requirements.
- Sample quantity and production quantity.
- Inspection requirements, destination and requested delivery date.
Review the ATR-P200 product specifications when preparing your enquiry. Quotations are based on the agreed material, finished geometry, quantity and requested inspection or assembly scope.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is ATR-P200 the same product as EJ-200?
ATR-P200 is evaluated as a separate commercial material. Its reported rise time and refractive index match the EJ-200 reference values, while decay time and attenuation information differ. Suitability depends on the acceptance criteria for the intended detector.
Can the reported attenuation length establish full-panel performance?
No. The 2.44 m result describes a particular sample test. A finished detector also depends on geometry, optical treatment, sensor placement and electronics settings. Evaluate the assembly that represents the intended use.
What should I send if my drawing only specifies “EJ-200 equivalent”?
Send the drawing and explain which requirements are mandatory: material brand, light output, timing, optical collection or a measured detector response. ATR can then review the proposed material and quotation scope against those requirements.