Scintillation Materials for Security and Inspection
ATR Crystal supplies scintillation crystals, pixelated arrays and plastic scintillators for OEM security and inspection projects. Material selection starts with the measurement: an X-ray image, a radiation count or a gamma-ray spectrum.
Send the radiation type and energy range, detector geometry, readout interface and quantity. These details provide the basis for reviewing a material and its finished configuration.
Start with the Inspection Task
X-Ray Baggage and Cargo Inspection
For an X-ray scintillator array, consider CdWO4 or CsI(Tl) alongside the scanner’s exposure and readout conditions. Specify pixel dimensions, final pitch, array thickness and the photosensor layout. Include afterglow and response requirements at the intended integration time; low afterglow alone does not establish the scanner’s achievable speed.
Radiation Portal Monitoring
Plastic scintillator panels and bars can be considered for large-area radiation counting. If the instrument needs gamma-ray spectroscopy, review an encapsulated NaI(Tl) configuration and its optical interface. A count-rate alarm does not by itself identify a radionuclide. Specify whether the system requires counting, spectral measurement or both.
The IAEA handbook, paragraphs 4.254–4.257, explains the distinction between plastic scintillators and crystalline detectors for gamma measurement.
Portable Gamma Spectroscopy and Isotope Identification
NaI(Tl) and LaBr3(Ce) are material options for spectroscopic detectors. State the required energy resolution together with the reference energy, sensor, optical coupling and test conditions. Both require moisture protection. For LaBr3(Ce), include the measurement’s background requirements. Isotope identification also depends on the instrument’s calibration, electronics and analysis software.
Industrial X-Ray and Gamma Inspection
For non-destructive testing and industrial imaging, compare GAGG(Ce), BGO, LYSO(Ce) and CdWO4 against the beam energy, available detector volume and acquisition conditions. Crystal thickness, light collection and readout affect the result. Material properties should be evaluated within the proposed detector configuration.
Compare Material and Readout Requirements
Use these options as starting points for a specification review. The linked product pages provide material information and ordering considerations.
| Material option | Application to review | Selection and specification checks |
|---|---|---|
| CdWO4 arrays | X-ray imaging and industrial CT | Pixel geometry, thickness, photodiode interface, afterglow acceptance criteria and integration time. |
| CsI(Tl) arrays | Linear or 2D X-ray detector layouts | Sensor spectral response, final pitch, reflector configuration, light-output uniformity and afterglow. |
| Plastic scintillators | Large-area radiation counting | Active area, thickness, light-collection arrangement and required count-rate response. |
| Encapsulated NaI(Tl) | Gamma-ray counting and spectroscopy | Crystal and housing dimensions, optical window, sensor coupling and resolution test conditions. |
| LaBr3(Ce) crystals | Gamma spectroscopy and isotope-identification instrument designs | Hermetic packaging, resolution target, readout interface and intrinsic-background considerations. |
| GAGG(Ce) arrays, BGO and LYSO(Ce) | Compact X-ray or gamma detector configurations | Compare stopping power, light output, decay response and intrinsic background for the intended measurement. |
For broader material comparisons, see our scintillation crystal selection guide.
Specify the Geometry and Optical Interface
A drawing should distinguish the active crystal dimensions from the finished component or housing dimensions. For arrays, identify pixel count, pixel size, final pitch, reflector gaps, overall footprint and the light-output face.
Include the sensor model or active area, coupling arrangement, surface finish and reflector requirements. For encapsulated materials, specify the window clear aperture, mounting features and available installation space. Add operating temperature, humidity and mechanical requirements where relevant.
Required tolerances, packaging and acceptance tests are reviewed for the requested configuration. A material quotation should state which components and inspection requirements it includes.
Request a Security Scintillator Material Quotation
Provide the information below, including any requirements that are still open for discussion.
| Quotation input | Details to include |
|---|---|
| Application | Baggage or cargo imaging, portal monitoring, gamma spectroscopy, or industrial inspection. |
| Radiation and measurement | Radiation type, energy range, count or imaging conditions, and relevant acceptance targets. |
| Material and drawing | Preferred material, active dimensions, thickness, tolerances and array layout where applicable. |
| Optical interface | Photosensor type or model, readout face, coupling method, reflector and surface finish. |
| Packaging and inspection | Housing and window requirements, operating environment, and requested test conditions. |
| Quantity and schedule | Sample and production quantities, plus the requested delivery date for review. |
Send your security scintillator requirements, or email drawings and specification sheets to sales@atrscintillator.com.