BaF2 Scintillation Crystal
Application of BaF2 Scintillators (Barium Fluoride Scintillators)
High energy physics
Nuclear physics
Nuclear medicine
UV and IR optical windows
Advantages of BaF2 Scintillators
The Fastest Known Scintillator: Features a fast cross-luminescence emission component at 220 nm with a decay time of just 0.6 – 0.8 ns, ideal for crucial Time-of-Flight (TOF) measurements.
Ultra-Broadband Transmission: Exhibits excellent optical clarity from Deep UV (150 nm) up to Mid-IR (14 μm), making it perfect for FTIR spectroscopy and thermography viewports.
High Radiation Hardness: Highly resistant to radiation damage (up to 10⁵ rad), ensuring long-term stable performance in extreme nuclear environments.
Custom Processing Capabilities: We offer custom diameters, thicknesses, and precise CMP polishing to meet specific electro-optic and detector geometries.
The Ability of ATR Crystal
Maximum Size: ɸ120mm x 200mm
Available items: monolithic crystal
| Properties of BaF2 Scintillators (Barium Fluoride Scintillators) | |
| Density (g/cm3) | 4.89 |
| Melting Point (℃) | 1280 |
| Crystal Structure | Cubic |
| Decay Constant (ns) | 620 slow; 0.6 fast |
| Cleavage Plane | -111 |
| Index of Refraction | 1.4624@2.58μm / 1.3936@10.35μm |
| Reflection Loss (both surfaces) | 6.8% @2.58μm / 5.3% @10.35μm |
| The wavelength of Max Emission (nm) | 310 slow; 220 fast |
| Hardness (Mho) | 3 |
| Hygroscopicity | Slightly |
| Radiation Length (mm) | 20.6 |
| Light Output of NaI(Tl) | 20% slow; 4% fast |
| Transmittance Range (μm) | 0.15~14 |
| Transmittance | >94% @0.35 ~ 10.8μm |
Q: What is the difference between the fast and slow scintillation components of BaF2?
A: BaF2 simultaneously emits in two bands. The ‘fast’ component emits in the deep UV (220 nm) with a sub-nanosecond decay time (~0.6 ns), crucial for precise timing applications like PET. The ‘slow’ component emits at 310 nm with a decay time of ~630 ns, which contributes to the overall light output for energy resolution.
Q: Is Barium Fluoride (BaF2) hygroscopic?
A: BaF2 is only slightly hygroscopic—much more stable than materials like NaCl or KBr. However, long-term exposure to high humidity can gradually degrade the polished surface, so storing it in a desiccator or dry environment is recommended.
Q: Is BaF2 sensitive to thermal shock?
A: Yes. Due to its high thermal expansion coefficient and distinct cleavage planes (111), BaF2 is highly susceptible to thermal shock. It must be heated and cooled gradually to prevent fracturing during application or storage.
