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Upconversion nanoparticles (UCNPs), particularly those that are highly doped, possess outstanding properties and have demonstrated tremendous application potential. However, novel fine-tuning strategies are urgently required to enhance the upconversion luminescence (UCL) performance of UCNPs. In this study, a series of core–multishell UCNPs highly doped with Ho3+ and Yb3+ ions were synthesized via the oleate route. The X-ray diffraction (XRD), transmission electron microscopy (TEM), and UCL spectra and decay times, and pump power dependency of the synthesized UCNPs were used to examine their morphology, size, and the UCL properties. Ce3+ ions were introduced to enhance Ho3+-based red UCL, and their doping strategy was also optimized based on summarized UCL trends and detailed UCL mechanism analysis. NaHoF 4 :Gd3+@NaGdF 4 :Yb3+,Ce3+@NaGdF 4 :Yb3+ UCNPs that had 10 mol% Ce3+ dopants in their middle shells exhibited better UCL properties than the larger traditional NaGdF 4 :Yb3+,Ce3+,Ho3+ UCNPs, probably because of the combined influence of the energy interactions between the Ce3+ ions and surface groups, sensitizing energy enhancement by active shells, and the positive cooperation between the Ce3+ ions and highly-doped core–shell structures. In this study, the phenomenon of UCL decrease resulting from Ce3+ ion doping was explored. Using unique core–multishell structures with highly-doped activators and sensitizers placed within and outside the structures, respectively, the UCL decrease due to Ce3+ ion doping was attributed to a competition for photons. Doping the UCNPs with Ce3+ ions near the UCNP surfaces favors Ho3+-based red UCL. Our study findings can deepen the understanding of the Ho3+-based UCL mechanisms and increase the potential uses of NaHoF 4 materials in photo-induced therapy. When Ce3+ ions are doped near the nanoparticle surface, they might have energy interactions with surface groups to relieve phonon energy shortage and thus enhance the efficiency of cross-relaxation between Ho3+ and Ce3+ ions. [Display omitted] [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Scintillators, owing to their exceptional ability to convert high-energy ionizing radiation into visible light, are the core component of X-ray radiography. However, conventional single-crystal scintillators are inadequate to satisfy the modern social and scientific demands. So, the development of novel scintillator materials is imminent. Herein, a series of Na 5 Lu 9- x Gd x F 32 :Ce3+ glass-ceramics (GCs) scintillators were elaborated by an exercisable and low-cost method. Benefiting from the proper introduction of Al powder and Gd3+, as well as the crystallization of Na 5 Lu 9- x Gd x F 32 nanocrystal (NCs) after heat treatment, luminescence excited by ultraviolet and X-ray of the sample is enhanced significantly. The integrated X-ray excited luminescence intensity of the representative sample can reach up to 128% of that of Bi 4 Ge 3 O 12. More importantly, the sample has excellent irradiation stability that is almost undamaged even exposed to high-energy X-ray radiation. Finally, satisfactory X-ray imaging based on the resultant sample was realized. The spatial resolution is as high as 14 lp mm−1, which exceeds that of many novel perovskite scintillators. Thus, this investigation promotes the development of low-cost, stable and high-performing Ce3+-activated GCs scintillators. • Three effective ways were designed to improve the scintillating property of the sample. • The integrated X-ray excited luminescence reaches 128% of that of Bi 4 Ge 3 O 12. • The sample is undamaged even excited by high-power (12 W) X-ray, infering outstanding irradiation stability. • Satisfactory X-ray imaging based on the sample was achieved. • The spatial resolution reaches 14 lp mm−1, exceeding that of many perovskite scintillators. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Er3+ doped high density germanate glasses with compositions of 50GeO 2 -10BaO–10Al 2 O 3 -15Lu 2 O 3 -(15-x) La 2 O 3 -xEr 2 O 3 (x = 0, 0.1, 0.5, 1.0, 1.5, and 2.0, in mol%) have been prepared by the melt-quenching method. The optical and physical properties of the samples were characterized by differential scanning calorimetry (DSC), density, transmittance spectra, photoluminescence (PL) spectra, and X-ray excited luminescence (XEL) spectra. The densities were in the range from 5.90 to 6.07 g/cm3. The strong green emissions around 552 nm of Er3+ were observed upon the excitations of 378 nm light and the X-ray, and the lifetimes of 552 nm emission were in the range of 20.88–96.47 μs. The results show that Er3+ doped high density germanate glasses could be used as potential scintillators for X-ray CT. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

We report a study of composite scintillating ceramics based on coupled layers of two different garnets, namely Ce-doped gadolinium gallium aluminium (GGAG:Ce) and Pr-doped yttrium aluminium (YAG:Pr), fabricated by hot isostatic pressing. Two samples were prepared, with different GGAG:Ce layer thickness, 120 µm and 690 µm respectively, but with a comparable overall thickness of 1.4 mm. The key finding is that the material architecture strongly determines the scintillation response. The radioluminescence is that expected from the irradiated material when a thick layer of ceramic is exposed to X-rays. Conversely, exposing a thin layer allows a non-null probability —about 0.3% for 120 µm of GGAG— of finding an X-ray photon in the underlying layer, and thus radioluminescence from both materials is recorded. We believe these results can extend the potential of layered optical ceramics for advanced devices, such as energy- and direction-sensitive X-ray detectors. [Display omitted] [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The luminescence and scintillation properties of Ce3+ doped alkali phosphate glasses 56P 2 O 5 :8Gd 2 O 3 :5Al 2 O 3 :1CeBr 3 :30XCl (PGAC:X, X = Li/Na/K/Rb/Cs) were studied for their potential applications in gamma and alpha detection. In the Fourier Transform Infrared Spectroscopy (FTIR), X-ray Luminescence (XRL), Photoluminescence (PL), and transmittance spectra, the red shift was found and explained by the concept of optical basicity. Broad Ce3+ emission and energy transfer from Gd3+ to Ce3+ were observed in XRL and PL measurements. Scintillation performance was studied by irradiating the samples under 137Cs gamma and 241Am alpha sources. The fast, intermediate, and slow decay components under gamma and alpha excitation were found around 30, 200 and 3000 ns, respectively. The decay time increased slightly from PGAC:Li to PGAC:Cs, indicating the less effective transition from Gd3+ to Ce3+. The alpha decay time was longer than the gamma decay time, revealing the Pulse Shape Discrimination (PSD) capability of the glasses for particle identification. The XRL intensity reduced significantly from PGAC:Li to PGAC:Cs samples did not reflect the scintillation tendency. By successfully detecting gamma and alpha scintillation signals, the scintillation performance of all samples was found to be similar. In general, all samples can be used for gamma and alpha detection. Using Rb+ or Cs+ ions is favorable in terms of high density and light yield, while Li+ ions enhance the transmittance and homogeneity. Furthermore, a correlation between P–O–H groups within the glass matrix and scintillation performance was also observed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The objective of this paper is to review the use of the thermoluminescence (TL) and optically stimulated luminescence (OSL) techniques as research tools in luminescence, particularly to detect the presence of trapping centers that can degrade the efficiency of scintillators, and shape the properties of persistent phosphors, storage phosphors and dosimeters. A brief review of the main analysis techniques is provided, followed by a discussion of their limitations. Examples of applications in which the TL or OSL analyses have provided useful information on the trapping and recombination of charges created by ionizing radiation is given. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Micron/sub-micron hard X-ray imaging is an important development direction of X-ray detection technology. Scintillation screens with excellent X-ray stopping power and high light output are desired to obtain good imaging quality. Europium-doped lutetium oxide (Lu 2 O 3 :Eu) film with micro-columnar structure is an ideal candidate for this application. In this study, micro-columnar structured Lu 2 O 3 :Eu films were prepared on quartz glass substrates by laser chemical vapor deposition (LCVD) method. The influences of preparation conditions on structure and morphology properties of films were investigated by X-ray diffraction (XRD) and scanning electron microscopy (SEM). Photoluminescence and scintillation properties of the films, including photoluminescence excitation (PLE), photoluminescence (PL), PL decay, X-ray excitation luminescence (XEL), and afterglow curves, were recorded. The relationships between structure, morphology, luminescence properties of films, and preparation conditions were investigated and discussed as well. The preparation conditions include laser power, oxygen flow rate, and precursor evaporation temperature. In addition, dual-layer Lu 2 O 3 :Eu film was prepared for the first time by just turning off the laser. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

It is well known that scintillator performance, especially its energy resolution, is highly dependent on its homogeneity which is determined through its growth process. Therefore, examination and quality control of synthesized scintillators is an important step towards their improvement. Ionoluminescence (IL) microscopy is a highly sensitive and non-destructive technique which can reveal the texture, chemical composition and distribution of trace elements in the inhomogeneous specimens. In this research work, IL microscopy technique is employed for the first time to provide images of two synthesized CsI(Na) crystals. The results show that IL microscopy is not only capable of determining the distribution of the total luminescence emitted from each point, but can also determine it for individual luminescence bands, which represents special luminescence centers in the sample. Therefore, IL microscopy is introduced as a high potential technique for effective characterization of scintillators. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The study deals with the use of different amounts of MgO or tetraethyl orthosilicate (C 8 H 20 O 4 Si, TEOS), from 0.04 wt %, 0.06 wt %, 0.08 wt %, 0.4 wt %, 0.6 wt % to 0.8 wt %, respectively, as additional sintering aids during the vacuum sintering of transparent Ce3+ doped Y 3 Al 5 O 12 (Ce:YAG) ceramics to investigate their effect on microstructure and luminescence properties. A comparative study was carried out by using X - ray diffraction, scanning electron microscopy/energy dispersive X - ray spectroscopy, optical and photo-luminesce spectra, as well as electroluminescent spectra. The dominant garnet phase was obtained even when adding 0.8 wt % of MgO or TEOS, while adding MgO led to finer average grain size (∼ 5 - 10 μm) and more homogenous distribution compared to TEOS (∼ 20 - 25 μm) in Ce:YAG ceramics. Adding a large amount of MgO was found to result in the segregation of MgO in Ce:YAG ceramics, while an excess of TEOS led to the segregation of Al 2 O 3. A strong absorption peak at 308 nm was observed in Ce:YAG ceramics with MgO sintering aids, which was ascribed to the existence of Ce4+ induced by a charge compensation effect of Mg2+. The optimum transmittance reached 80% @ 800 nm in Ce:YAG ceramics when adding 0.6 wt % TEOS, which also exhibited a maximum luminous efficacy of 106 lm/W. Si4+ was experimentally proved to have a better optimization effect on luminous efficacy compared to Mg2+. • MgO or TEOS (C 8 H 20 O 4 Si) was added as additional sintering aids in a wide amount range. • MgO proves to have distinct inhibit effect on the grain growth. • Better luminous efficacy were observed in ceramics with TEOS additives. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Pr3+ doped high density germanate glasses were prepared by the melt-quenching method. The physical and luminescent properties were investigated. The glass containing BaF 2 represented maximum phonon energy of 810 cm−1, and the glass density was greater than 6 g/cm3. The glass exhibited good radiation resistance under 2 h of X-ray irradiation. Intense blue, green emissions and weak red emissions were observed when the glass was excited by X-ray, and the blue fluorescence lifetimes were in the range of 9.15–12.59 μs The results show that Pr3+ doped germanate glass could be a potential scintillating material in the field of X-ray detection for fast events. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Oxyfluoride glass ceramics with low toxicity, high stability and strong X-ray excited luminescence intensity are introduced as scintillating material. Herein, a series of novel NaGd 2 F 7 :xTb3+ (x = 0, 0.1, 0.2, 0.3, 0.4) were synthesized through in situ growth self-crystallization. X-ray diffraction, fourier transform infrared spectrometer and transmission electron microscopy were measured to investigate the structure and morphology of NaGd 2 F 7 glass ceramics. These investigations demonstrate that NaGd 2 F 7 nanocrystals are uniformly distributed in glass matrix with 20–30 nm diameter. Photoluminescence and X-ray excitation spectra are greatly enhanced after further thermal treatment which verify better crystallization of NaGd 2 F 7 glass ceramics. The X-ray excited luminescence of the GC2–640 sample can reach 143.8% of the commercial BGO. More importantly, the damaged material can be completely repaired by annealing at 350 °C for 30 min. Our investigation indicates that Tb-doped transparent NaGd 2 F 7 glass ceramics are potential candidates of X-ray scintillating material. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Driven by the pursuit of optimizing the luminescent properties of garnet-based single crystals for X-ray imaging applications, this work reports on the successful synthesis and in-depth characterization of GYAGG crystals doped with Ce³⁺ or Tb³⁺ ions, and doubly-doped with both of them. Micro-pulling down synthesis yielded crystals with a single cubic phase confirmed by X-ray diffraction. Photoluminescence (PL) and radioluminescence (RL) measurements on Ce³⁺,Tb³⁺ co-doped GYAGG revealed bidirectional energy transfer processes. Characteristic broadband 5d 1 →4f emission of Ce³⁺ centers peaking at 530 nm and narrow 4f→4f emission lines of Tb³⁺ ions starting from 5D 4 level within 480–630 nm were observed. At higher doping levels, cross-relaxation in Tb³⁺ pairs resulted depleted 5D 3 state and only the emission from 5D 4 one was observed in the spectra. Analysis of PL decay characteristics corroborated the spectral observations, confirming progressively decreasing Ce³⁺ decay time (down to 40 ns at 15 % Tb3+) due to enhanced Ce³⁺→Tb³⁺ energy transfer. Similarly, the Tb³⁺ decay time accelerated by more than 60 % after the Ce³⁺ co-doping. Notably, co-doping with 0.5 % Ce³⁺ and 10–15 % Tb³⁺ doubled the luminescence intensity of RL spectra compared to 0.5 % Ce³⁺-doping alone, attributed to the increased density of emitting centers. • High-quality and crack-free GYAGG:Ce,Tb single crystals were successfully grown. • The photoluminescence spectra revealed Ce³⁺↔Tb³⁺ bidirectional energy transfer. • At lower Tb³⁺ doping (0.5 %), the bidirectional energy transfer was inefficient. • High Tb³⁺ doping (15 %) significantly enhanced energy transfer. • Co-doping yielded a two-fold radioluminescence intensity compared to sole doping. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this study, we examine the impact of optical and scintillation properties on needle-shaped bis(butylammonium) lead bromide [(BA) 2 PbBr 4 ] crystals (average length of 12.7 mm and average width of 1.3 mm), considering different growth methods and dimensions. Needle-shaped crystals with a length-to-width aspect ratio greater than 10 are essential for cutting-edge radiation imaging technology. Through X-ray diffraction characterization, we observe lattice expansion in the needle-shaped crystals compared to previous single crystals. This expansion leads to a stronger overlap between absorption and photoluminescence (PL) spectra, resulting in a smaller Stokes shift of 26 meV. Time-resolved PL analysis reveals a fast decay component of 0.8 ns, which is 68 % faster than the previously reported best value of 2.0 ns, with an average decay time of 3.6 ns, 48 % faster than the best reported value of 7.0 ns. Although our measured sample exhibits a comparatively low light yield (LY) of 7.8 ph/keV due to strong self-absorption, the best energy resolution is observed with a value of 11.5 %, similar to the best reported value of 10.9 %. Despite this, the LY is notably superior to that of previously reported benzylammonium lead bromide [(BZA) 2 PbBr 4 ] crystals (3.7 ph/keV). Additionally, scintillation decay shows a fast component of 9.4 ns and an average decay time of 119 ns. These characteristics make two-dimensional-(BA) 2 PbBr 4 needle-shaped crystals promising candidates for cost-effective and scalable applications in radiation imaging technology. • Solution process 2D-(BA) 2 PbBr 4 needle-shaped crystals was successfully synthesized with an aspect ratio of length to width exceeding 10. • Time-resolved photoluminescence analysis reveals ultra-fast decay component of 0.8 ns, which is 68 % faster than the reported value of 2.0 ns. • Solution grown needle-shaped 2D perovskites are an interesting and versatile class of materials for cost-effective and scalable in cutting-edge radiation imaging technology. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Tb3+ doped sodium-gadolinium-aluminum-phosphate glass samples (PGNA) with chemical compositions 30Na 2 CO 3 :8Gd 2 O 3 :5Al 2 O 3: (57- x)P 2 O 5 : x Tb 4 O 7 (where x = 0 , 0.25, 0.5, 1.0, 2.0, 3.0, 4.0, and 5 mol. %) were manufactured by using adopting the conventional melt quenching technique. The PXRD study of the prepared samples was used to confirm the amorphous structure. FE-SEM, EDS, and FTIR studies were carried out to analyze the elemental and structural characteristics of synthesized glasses. The X-ray induced luminescence spectra were obtained at room temperature and the emission peak at 311 nm corresponding to Gd3+ transition was observed decreasing with the increase of Tb 4 O 7 concentrations, while emission peak intensities corresponding to Tb3+ electronic transitions increased with the concentrations of Tb 4 O 7. The results from the photoluminescence (PL) studies in the UV–Vis–NIR region showed the glasses emitting intense green light with the highest peak at 544 nm under excitations at 220, 272, and 311 nm. The PL emission intensities were found reasonably high under characteristic excitations of both Gd3+ and Tb3+, peaking at 380, 414, 437, 489, 544, 584, and 623 nm, which corresponding to 5D 3 → 7F 6, 5D 3 → 7F 5 , 5D 3 → 7F 4 , 5D 4 → 7F 6 , 5D 4 → 7F 5 , 5D 4 → 7F 5 , 5D 4 → 7F 4 , 5D 4 → 7F 3 transitions, respectively. The decay time of Tb3+ ions has been observed to decrease when the concentration of Tb 4 O 7 increases. The energy transfer from Gd3+ to Tb3+ was found increased with increasing of Tb3+ concentrations. The CIE 1931 chromaticity coordinates of Tb doped PGNA glasses were found to be in the green range, indicating a strong potential for green laser application. The results from X-ray imaging showed that Tb-doped glass scintillators promise of efficient and low-cost solution for X-ray imaging applications. • XRL spectra has the emission peak at 311 nm corresponding to 6P 7/2 → 8S 7/2 due to Gd3+ ion in the host. • Glasses emitting intense green light with highest peak at 544 nm under 220, 272, 311 nm excitations. • PL emission intensities found reasonably high for both Gd3+ and Tb3+ characteristic excitation. • CIE 1931 coordinates of glasses found in the green indentify potential for green laser application. • The Tb-doped glass promise of efficient and low-cost solution for X-ray imaging applications. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Gd 2 O 2 S:Pr,Ce nanophosphors have been prepared by liquid-phase method using NH 2 SO 3 H as the sulfur source for the first time. The formula of the novel precursor was determined as Gd 2 (OH) x (NH 2 SO 3) 6-x ∙nH 2 O by EDS, TG-DSC and FT-IR spectroscopy, and the precursor exhibited an amorphous structure and lamellar morphology as deduced from XRD and SEM. The optimum pH was 8 and the optimum calcination temperature was 1000 °C for the preparation of Gd 2 O 2 S:Pr,Ce from the precursor. The PL quantum yield and the fluorescence lifetime of Gd 2 O 2 S:Pr,Ce powder was 53.62 % and 2.48 μs respectively, which will allow the preparation of ceramic scintillators with high optical output and energy resolution. Compared to the traditional sulfur sources such as sublimed sulfur, and H 2 SO 4 , NH 2 SO 3 H is harmless and avoids pollution gases during the preparation of Gd 2 O 2 S:Pr,Ce nanophosphors. It also eliminates the need to add additional reagents, simplifying the preparation steps and reducing production costs. • GOS powder was synthesized by using a new sulfur source NH 2 SO 3 H for the first time. • The novel precursor Gd 2 (OH) x (NH 2 SO 3) 6-x ∙nH 2 O was analyzed in detail. • GOS powder was with high PL quantum yield and short fluorescence lifetime. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Sm-doped CaCl 2 , SrCl 2 , and BaCl 2 bulk crystals were synthesized using the conventional vertical Bridgman method, and the photoluminescence, radioluminescence, and detector properties were evaluated. The Sm-doped CaCl 2 , SrCl 2 , and BaCl 2 samples show a broad emission band at 750, 690, and 650 nm, respectively, which is attributable to the 5d-4f transitions of Sm2+. The pulse height spectra under 137Cs γ-rays (662 keV) show that the Sm-doped CaCl 2 and SrCl 2 exhibit 9300 and 33000 photons/MeV, respectively. These samples can be used for γ-ray measurements in the red to NIR region. • Sm-doped CaCl 2 , SrCl 2 , and BaCl 2 crystals were synthesized using the conventional vertical Bridgman method. • The photoluminescence, radioluminescence, and detector properties were evaluated. • The samples show a broad emission band at 600–800 nm due to Sm2+. • Sm-doped CaCl 2 , SrCl 2 , and BaCl 2 exhibit light yield of 9300, 33000, and 16000 photons/MeV, respectively. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In order to estimate the stability of the light output of the scintillation detector, the Lu 2 SiO 5 :Ce scintillation crystals, additionally doped with Ca2+ ions at concentrations of 0 ÷ 0.4 at%, were studied. The spectra of optical absorption, gamma-luminescence, thermal luminescence, dose and temperature dependences of luminescence were measured. Gamma-luminescence in the dose range 10 - 5·107 Gy was recorded using 60Co gamma-source at the temperature range of 310–460 K. In contrast to the initial sample (non-doped with Ca), in the sample doped with 0.1 at% of Ca, an increase in the luminescence intensity was observed in the range of 390–425 nm, but further with an increase in the concentration of Ca (0.3–0.4 at%), the intensity of this band decreased to the initial level (undoped). At Ca concentrations of 0.3 and 0.4 at%, the intensity of the Ce1 center band remains practically unchanged up to a dose of 5·107 Gy. LSO crystals doped with Ce 0.1 at% and co-doped with Ca 0.1 at% can be recommended as a scintillation detector up to a gamma-dose of 105 Gy at room temperature. • Ca-codoped Lu 2 SiO 5 :Ce crystals are studied as a material for scintillation detector. • At Ca 0.1 at% an increase in the luminescence at 390–425 nm was observed. • At Ca 0.3 at% the Ce1 center emission doesn't change up to a γ-dose of 5·107 Gy. • Defect complexes completely discolor at room temperature in two days. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Single crystals of Gd 3 (Ga,Al) 5 O 12 :Ce,Mg with different concentration of Mg2+ ions varying from 0 to 0.029 at.% are investigated by the X-ray diffraction, steady-state and time-resolved photoluminescence, and thermally stimulated luminescence (TSL) methods in a wide temperature range (77–510 K). The origin and structure of the luminescence centers are considered. The influence of Mg2+ ions on the structure of the Ce3+-related excited state, the processes taking place in this state, and the TSL characteristics is clarified. At low temperatures, the photoluminescence optical quenching in close {Ce3+ - Mg2+} pairs is found to be responsible for the light yield reduction accompanied with the acceleration of the luminescence decay kinetics. At room temperature, the luminescence quenching can be additionally caused by the thermal ionization of the 5d 1 excited state of Ce3+ ion, whose probability increases with the increasing Ga content. The conclusion is made that in order to create the fast scintillator with the maximum light yield, the concentration of intrinsic crystal lattice defects in Gd 3 (Ga,Al) 5 O 12 :Ce,Mg should be minimized, the optimum composition of the host should be chosen, and the balance between the concentrations of the doped Mg2+ and Ce3+ ions should be optimised. • Photo- and thermoluminescence and XRD of Gd 3 (Ga,Al) 5 O 12 :Ce,Mg crystals are studied. • Influence of Mg2+ ions on the Ce3+-related luminescence and excited states is clarified. • Optical quenching in close {Ce3+ - Mg2+} pairs results in the light yield reduction and accompanied with acceleration of the Ce3+ luminescence decay kinetics. • Ga3+ ions and intrinsic defects strongly influence the luminescence thermal quenching. • Optimum host composition and preferable Ce3+/Mg2+ concentration ratio are considered. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Strontium phosphate (SrO–P 2 O 5 –Al 2 O 3 –Gd 2 O 3) glasses with 0.05, 0.1, 0.5, and 1 mol % CeO 2 were prepared by the conventional melt quenching technique. These glasses' luminescence, scintillation, and physical properties were measured and discussed in detail. The density, refractive index, and oxygen packing density of the studied glasses were increased with an increase in CeO 2 concentration. At lower concentrations of CeO 2 , the characteristic 310 nm emission from Gd3+ and broadband emission from Ce3+ ions were obtained under X-ray excitations. The intensity of both Gd3+ and Ce3+ emission bands under 270 nm Gd3+ excitations reduced with further increase in CeO 2 , showing the delayed energy transfer from Gd3+ to Ce3+ ions. The integrated X-ray-induced luminescence intensity of 0.5% CeO 2 glass was found to be 21% that of reference BGO crystal. For the lower concentration of CeO 2 , a slow decay time along with the fast Ce3+ decay was observed and disappears for higher CeO 2 concentrations. The fast luminescence decay in the range of 22 ns–30 ns was observed for all the PSAG:Ce glasses, which was attributed to the lifetime of the 4f-5d transition of the Ce3+ ions. The faster decay time and reasonable scintillation light suggest the application of these glasses for radiation detector applications. • Strontium phosphate glasses with various concentrations of CeO 2 are fabricated. • The density, refractive index, and OPD increased with CeO 2 concentrations. • Efficient energy transfer from Gd3+ to Ce3+ was confirmed from luminescence. • X-ray-induced scintillation light was found to be 21% that of BGO crystal. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

LaMgAl 11 O 19 :Er single crystals were examined as candidates for scintillators emitting near-infrared luminescence, and their radioluminescence and scintillation detector characteristics were assessed. Upon exposure to X-ray, distinct emission peaks appear at ∼550 and ∼1540 nm and are attributable to Er3+ ions. The decay curves also exhibited characteristic decay times associated with Er3+ ions. Particularly, the 3% Er-doped sample showed a discernible linearity in the dynamic range of dose rate from 1 to 50,000 mGy/h, indicating the potential utility in applications requiring precise and reliable radiation measurements. • Er-doped LaMgAl 11 O 19 crystals were synthesized by the floating zone method. • The samples show a broad emission band at 380 nm due to host and sharp peaks at 550 and 1540 nm due to Er3+. • The 3% Er-doped sample showed a good linearity in the dynamic range of dose rate from 1 to 50,000 mGy/h. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Rare-earth aluminate garnet-type double oxides have practical applications as scintillators with high luminescence yields; however, several garnet compounds are metastable phases, and those scintillation properties are yet unclear. We prepared Ce3+-doped Gd 3 Al 5 O 12 (Ce3+:GAG) as a thick-film phosphor, using laser-assisted metal–organic chemical vapor deposition, and investigated its luminescence and scintillation properties. With a deposition rate of 48 μm h−1, the Ce3+:GAG thick film was epitaxially grown on a Y 3 Al 5 O 12 single crystal substrate with in-plane orientation relationship. Under UV light and α-ray irradiations, the Ce3+:GAG film exhibited a broad emission centered at 560 nm corresponding to the 5d–4f transition of Ce3+ ions. The scintillation light yield of the Ce3+:GAG film was 14250 photons per 5.5 MeV with a fast decay constant of 82.8 ns for the α-ray irradiation from the 241Am source. • Ce3+:GAG thick film phosphor was epitaxially grown using CVD method. • Ce3+: GAG exhibited photoluminescence at 560 nm due to Ce3+ 5d-4f transition. • Scintillation light yield was 14250 photons per 5.5 MeV, comparable to Ce3+:YAG. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Lead halide perovskites are reportedly a very promising group of materials for scintillation due to their fast sub-nanosecond exciton luminescence, small band-gaps, and high theoretical light yield. Unfortunately, they only show emission at cryogenic temperatures. In this work single crystals of CsPbBr 3 and CsPbCl 3 are studied at cryogenic temperatures. Upon comparing the 10 K emission spectra measured under X-ray and UV–vis excitation, a new near-infrared emission was found for both CsPbBr 3 and CsPbCl 3 only present under X-ray excitation. The integral light yields of CsPbBr 3 and CsPbCl 3 at 10 K are estimated to be 34,000 and 2,200 photons/MeV under 40 keV X-ray excitation, respectively. The main components of the light yield of CsPbBr 3 at 10 K are the near band-gap free exciton emission that suffers from self-absorption and the broad near-infrared emission that falls outside the typical detection range of a photo-multiplier tube. Due to the combination of the two aforementioned effects it was not possible to measure a γ -ray pulse height spectrum for CsPbBr 3 at 10 K. Despite all the suitable properties, like the fast decay, a small band-gap, and the positive prospects of 3D perovskite based scintillators, we conclude that these materials perform poorly as scintillation crystals. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

0.5, 1, 2, and 5% Er-doped La 3 Ga 5 SiO 14 (LGS) single crystals were synthesized by the Floating Zone method and the photoluminescence (PL) and scintillation properties were characterized. Emission peaks appeared at visible–near-infrared (NIR) regions. Their spectral features matched with those due to the 4f–4f transitions of Er3+. The PL quantum yields of 0.5, 1, 2, and 5% Er-doped samples were respectively 45.0, 73.3, 82.5, and 69.4%. The decay times due to the 2H 9/2 –4I 15/2 transitions of Er3+ were obtained when visible ranges were monitored under excitation of both visible lights and X-rays. All the prepared samples showed good linearity between the X-ray exposure dose rate and scintillation signals in NIR ranges. The best lower detection limit in prepared samples was 5 mGy/h recorded by the 2% Er-doped LGS. • Er-doped La 3 Ga 5 SiO 14 single crystals were synthesized by the Floating zone method. • Luminescence due to 4f–4f transitions of Er3+ was observed in both visible and near-infrared regions. • Quantum yields of 0.5, 1, 2, and 5% Er-doped samples were respectively 45.0, 73.7, 82.5, and 69.4%. • The best lower detection limit in prepared samples was 5 mGy/h obtained by 2% Er-doped sample. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The ability of a scintillator to absorb and convert the high-energy X-ray photons to low-energy visible photons is crucial for the application of X-ray in medical tests, security checks and scientific research. However, traditional scintillation crystals are synthesized by complex preparation process with high cost, hindering the wide development in practical applications. Here, Tb3+ doped sodium silicate glass, which exhibits remarkable scintillation property and recoverability to X-ray irradiation, was successfully prepared by an exercisable melt-quenching method. The obtained scintillator shows intense radioluminescence, which is about 1.5 times higher than that of the reference of Bi 4 Ge 3 O 12. The damaged glass to X-ray irradiation can be returned to the original state after heat treatment again, indicating excellent recovery. Moreover, the scintillator displays wonderful thermal stability with the fluorescence intensity at 573 K still remaining 96% at room temperature. These results demonstrate that the obtained scintillating glass has potential application towards the real world. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Recent surge in additive manufacturing efforts demonstrate stereolithography as a promising technique for fabricating glass materials due to the high speed and scalability of the process. However, little efforts have been devoted to manufacture borosilicate glass by the stereolithographic process. One of the challenges is that its relatively low softening temperatures could interfere with the thermal post-printing process and introduce poor fidelity and structure instability. Here, we report on the first demonstration of stereolithographic manufacturing of cerium-doped (Ce-doped) (<10%) and undoped borosilicate glass which was enabled by a multi-step post thermal processing. The optical properties of the printed glass depend on thermal processing parameters (temperature, time, and environment) and can be readily tuned and optimized for a wide range of applications. The printed amorphous glass shows good structural stability with band gap of 3 eV, Urbach energy of 0.75 eV and refractive index of 2.14 for 8% Ce-doped glass, respectively. These results indicate Ce-doped glass fabricated by stereolithography is suitable for scintillator applications and that additive manufacturing could be promising for borosilicate glass fabrication. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• The optimal non-stoichiometric ratio for growing Cs 2 LiYCl 6 :Ce crystals was obtained. • High quality Cs 2 LiYCl 6 :Ce single crystals codoped with Ca2+ and Sr2+ ions were grown by the Multi-ampoule Bridgman method. • The energy resolution of Cs 2 LiYCl 6 :Ce was improved from 4.6 % to 3.8 % by co-doping 0.05 % Sr2+. Cs 2 LiYCl 6 :Ce is a novel scintillation crystal with good energy resolution, high light yield, and outstanding neutron/gamma discrimination capability. However, its complex composition and incongruent melting behavior pose many challenges to the crystal growth. In this study, five different compositions of Cs 2 LiYCl 6 :Ce crystals were grown using the vertical Bridgman method. These compositions included LiCl at 57 mol%, 60 mol%, and 63 mol%, as well as CsCl and YCl 3 at ratios of 1.9:1 and 2.1:1. It was found that the highest CLYC phase volume fraction could be obtained in the recipe with a LiCl composition of 60 mol%, while changing the ratio of CsCl to YCl 3 did not show any significant positive effect on crystal growth. In addition, Ca2+/Sr2+ was applied to modify the scintillation performance of CLYC:Ce. A batch of Φ11mm crystals with different co-doping concentrations of Ca2+ and Sr2+ were successfully grown by using the Multi-ampoule Bridgman method, no cracks or inclusions were observed in the grown crystals. Co-doping showed little effect on the radiation luminescence and transmittance spectra of CLYC. The scintillation decay curves demonstrated that the decay times depend on the co-doping concentration. Most notably, the energy resolution of CLYC:Ce is improved from 4.6 % to 3.8 % by co-doping 0.05 % Sr2+ under 662 keV gamma-ray excitation. However, the light yield is reduced because of co-doping of Ca2+ and Sr2+, especially Ca2+ having a more pronounced effect. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

We have developed Eu:BaFCl ceramics with translucency and investigated the optical and scintillation properties. The emission peaks appeared at around 365 and 390 nm in Eu:BaFCl translucent ceramics. Photoluminescence and scintillation decay time constants were approximately 0.5 and 6 μs, which was typical value s of Eu:BaFCl. The afterglow levels were 50–80 ppm, which was superior to commercial Tl:CsI assessed in the same setup. Under 137Cs γ-ray irradiation, the scintillation light yield of the 0.1, 0.5, and 1.0 % Eu:BaFCl were calculated to be 9,000, 16,000, and 13,000 ph/MeV, respectively. The light yield of our translucent ceramic samples was shown to be much higher than that of the Eu:BaFCl single crystal (883 ph/MeV). • Eu-doped (0.1, 0.5, and 1.0 %) BaFCl translucent ceramics were synthesized by the spark plasma sintering method. • Eu:BaFCl samples showed blue luminescence with the maximum peak at 390 nm in both the photoluminescence and X-ray-induced scintillation spectra. • The 0.5 % Eu:BaFCl sample showed the highest light yield (16,000 ph/MeV) under 137Cs γ-ray irradiation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study investigates the potential of Gd-Ba-Na borate glasses doped with Sm3+ ions as scintillation materials. The glasses were synthesized using a melt-quenching process, and their luminescence properties were examined. The results demonstrate that the glass sample with 0.5 mol% of Sm3+ exhibits the most promising scintillation performance, achieving the highest integral scintillation efficiency (24.11%) compared to the BGO crystal. For the photoluminescence study, the emission spectra, under 403 nm excitation wavelength, show emission bands centered at 563, 599, 646, and 706 nm, consistent with characteristic Sm3+ transitions. The highest energy transfer efficiency from Gd3+ to Sm3+ (64.37%) is also found in the glass sample with 0.5 mol% Sm3+. The emission color can be tuned by varying the excitation wavelength. Excitation at 403 nm primarily excites Sm3+ ions, resulting in orange emission. In contrast, excitation at 275 nm excites Gd3+ ions, leading to reddish-orange emission. The results demonstrate the potential of this glass composition for use as a highly efficient scintillation material due to its excellent performance in both radioluminescence and photoluminescence properties. • Sm3+-doped gadolinium barium sodium borate glasses have been prepared. • The integral scintillation efficiency of glass is 24.11% of BGO crystal. • The radioluminescence and photoluminescence emission reaches a maximum at 0.5 mol% of Sm3+. • The (x,y) color coordinate of emission light is located in orange region. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this study, we introduce an efficient green-emitting material made from Tb3+ doped borophosphate scintillating glass for X-ray imaging. An influence of Tb 2 O 3 concentration on the physical, optical, luminescent, and scintillation properties of glasses were investigated. The glass density and refractive index increase, while the molar volume and Tb3+ inter-ionic distance decreases with Tb 2 O 3 addition. These glasses absorb the photons in range of UV, Vis, and NIR. The excitations by UV and X-ray on glasses causes the strong green emission centered around 545 nm by the 5D 4 → 7F 5 transition of Tb3+. The energy transfer from Gd3+ to Tb3+ was occurred in this emission. The glass doped with 4 mol% of Tb 2 O 3 demonstrates the highest emission intensity at 545 nm due to the concentration quenching. The decay time of glasses are in few milliseconds. The integral X-ray scintillation efficiency of 4 mol% doped glass is 52% compared to that of BGO crystal. Additionally, this glass was proceeded in the X-ray imaging and yielded the image with satisfied resolution, characteristics and MTF values, compared to that obtained from YAG:Ce crystal. The developed glass has a potential for X-ray imaging applications, especially in the medical imaging, flaw detection, and security inspection. • The scintillation efficiency of glass reaches 52% compared to a BGO standard crystal. • X-ray imaging operated by a developed glass provides the clear and detailed images. • MTF values imply that the glass can effectively capture and convey the object with intricate details. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Ce differently (0, 0.01, 0.1, 1, 2 and 5% with respect to Mg) doped LiMgAlF 6 ceramics were synthesized by the spark plasma sintering (SPS) method. In photoluminescence (PL), emission bands appeared at 300 nm with 30 ns day time, and these emission properties were almost the same in scintillation under X-ray irradiation. Further, thermally stimulated luminescence (TSL) was observed after X-ray irradiation, and the primary glow peak temperature was 160 °C with a lower detection limit of ∼10 mGy. • Ce-doped LiMgAlF 6 ceramics were prepared by the spark plasma sintering method. • Photoluminesence and scintillation properties were investigated. • Thermally stimulated luminescence properties were evaluated. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The photoluminescence and scintillation properties of n-bromophenethylammonium lead chloride ((n-BrPEA) 2 PbCl 4) (n = 4, 3, and 2) and phenethylammonium lead chloride ((PEA) 2 PbCl 4) have been investigated. All the samples showed broad emission peaks at 400–700 nm upon excitation by UV light or X-ray. The decay time constants of 8–28 ns were obtained which originated from the recombination of self-trapped exciton (STE) within inorganic layers. The afterglow levels at 20 ms after 2 ms of X-ray irradiation of (4-BrPEA) 2 PbCl 4 and (3-BrPEA) 2 PbCl 4 (76 and 55 ppm) were better than (PEA) 2 PbCl 4 (379 ppm). The light yield of (4-BrPEA) 2 PbCl 4 (3100 photons/5.5 MeV-α) was higher than (PEA) 2 PbCl 4 (1400 photons/5.5 MeV-α). • (BrC 6 H 4 C 2 H 4 NH 3) 2 PbCl 4 crystals were grown by the slow cooling method. • All the crystals showed the luminescence due to the recombination of the self-trapped excitons confined in inorganic layers. • The (4-BrC 6 H 4 C 2 H 4 NH 3) 2 PbCl 4 crystal showed the highest QY in the present crystals. • The light yields of the (4-BrC 6 H 4 C 2 H 4 NH 3) 2 PbCl 4 crystals surpassed that of the unsubstituted crystal. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Intrinsic luminescence in Ce-doped (Lu,Y) 2 SiO 5 (or LYSO:Ce) single crystals have been studied by means of excitation luminescence spectroscopy in the vacuum ultraviolet energy range under synchrotron radiation. A previously unreported luminescence band with emission at 250 nm has been discovered as well as its thermal behavior was described in the temperature range 10–120 K. The excitation spectra as well as time-resolved properties of this band suggest that this emission corresponds either to the singlet component of self-trapped exciton or to a self-trapped exciton in the lutetium sublattice of LYSO single crystals. • New previously unreported intrinsic emission band at 250 nm has been observed in LYSO single crystals. • Temperature dependencies of intrinsic luminescence have been measured and analyzed. • Two possible origins of new 250 nm emission are proposed and discussed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Ce,Mg:Lu 2 YGa x Al 5-x O 12 (x = 1.5, 2, 2.5, 3) ceramic scintillators were fabricated by oxygen sintering combined with air annealing using nano-powders synthesized by the co-precipitation method. The Ce3+ 5d 1 → 4f (2F 5/2 , 2F 7/2) luminescence band was blue shifted with increasing Ga content due to the decrease in the crystal field splitting of the 5d levels. At room temperature (RT), the decrease of photoluminescence decay time and scintillation decay time was observed with increasing Ga content. At 662 keV γ-rays, the sample Ga2 exhibited high light yield (LY) of 28,700 photons/MeV, fast scintillation decay times of 17.7 ns (17 %) + 45.7 ns (83 %), and good time resolution of ∼220 ps. At RT, the decrease of LY value for the samples Ga2.5 and Ga3 could be attributed to the larger thermal ionization of the excited Ce3+ centers. • Scintillation properties of Ce,Mg:Lu 2 YGa x Al 5-x O 12 (x = 1.5, 2, 2.5, 3) ceramics are investigated. • All ceramic samples show fast effective scintillation decay time less than 47 ns. • Sample x = 2 shows high LY of ∼28,700 ph/MeV @662 keV γ rays. • Samples x = 2 and 2.5 show good coincidence time resolution of 220 ps. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study provided the first in-depth investigation of the effects of large dopant incompatibility (Pr3+ and La3+ ions) on the small host lattice element (Lu3+) in Lu 3 Al 5 O 12 (LuAG) single crystal. The growth of such complex crystals from the melt presented many challenges. By engineering the ionic radius ratio of RE- and M-site cations, a single-crystal phase stabilized by configurational entropy was achieved. This investigation elucidated the crystallization behavior of configurationally disordered rare-earth aluminum garnet oxide (Lu 1−x−y Pr x La y) 3 Al 5 O 12 from the melt and characterized its functional properties, including microstructural, optical, photoluminescence, and scintillation properties, between 5 and 300 K. Relaxation of the imposed strain energy led to local perturbations and destabilization of the garnet structure. Multielemental EDS mapping, micro-Raman spectroscopy, and thermoluminescence revealed the mechanism by which atomic size mismatch drove a smooth transition from the garnet to the perovskite phase in high entropy garnets. The optical, photoluminescence, and scintillation measurements provided fundamental insights into property changes driven by incompatibility doping. Standard and modified Judd-Ofelt theory analysis of absorption spectra determined the phenomenological Judd-Ofelt parameters Ω λ and radiative lifetimes. Atomic size mismatch engineering offers a promising approach to overcoming the limitations of conventional eutectic synthesis methods. • Perovskite inclusions, driven by atomic size mismatch, extend from rim to core. • Controlled incompatible La3+,Pr3+ codoping in LuAG modify functional properties. • Scintillation light yield improved up to 30% in La3+ codoped LuAG:Pr crystals. • (La,Pr)AlO 3 perovskite forms due to size mismatch of La3+ and Pr3+ with Lu3+. • Lattice disorder affects the intensity ratio of Pr³⁺ 5d→4 f and 4 f→4 f emissions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Scintillators are of significance for X-ray excited luminescence (XEL) imaging from scientific research to medical diagnostics application. Rare earth fluoride nanocrystals possess distinctive luminescent properties originated from the abundant energy level of lanthanide activators, showing potential applications as next-generation scintillators. Herein, high Z atomic rare earth element lutetium was chosen to synthesized NaLuF 4 -based nanoscintillators by Tb doping. Core-shell structure was fabricated to further enhance the XEL emission intensity. The NaLuF 4 -based nanoscintillators was demonstrated more efficient XEL emission with 3-folds increase compared to NaYF 4 nanocrystals. NaLuF 4 nanocrystals with a 25 mol% Tb doping and an inert shell coating exhibited excellent scintillation performance with detection limit as low as to 57.05 nGy air s−1. X-ray imaging demonstrated a high spatial resolution of 10.5 lp mm−1 using a scintillator film made from as-prepared NaLuF 4 -based nanoscintillators. Finally, such NaLuF 4 -based scintillators film have been applied in X-ray imaging application for a chip and a biological specimen. This study proposed an effective strategy to enhance XEL for rare earth fluoride, providing the ability for high-quality X-ray imaging. • Enhanced luminescence of X-ray excitation nanocrystals were demonstrated by selecting NaLuF 4 -based and core-shell structure. • The nanoscintillators exhibited excellent X-ray scintillation performance, achieving efficient X-ray luminescence imaging. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

X-ray Excited Optical Luminescence (XEOL) from rare earth doped whitlockite phosphates and silicate garnets [Ca 9 La(PO 4) 7 and Ca 9 Lu(PO 4) 7 , doped with 1 mol% Ce3+; Ca 3 Sc 2 Si 3 O 12, doped with 0.5 mol% Pr3+, 1 mol% Eu3+ and 1 mol% Tb3+], was obtained upon X-ray excitation with a tunable synchrotron light source. Excitation at photon energies across the M 5,4 -edge of the dopants reveals additional information not normally obtainable with conventional UV/visible or an X-ray line source (Al K α). It is found that despite the low concentration, photoluminescence yields excited with photon energy at the M 5,4 -edge of the rare-earth dopant can positively and negatively affect the overall energy transfer to the optical center. The implication of these observations is discussed. The application of XEOL in the investigation of X-ray scintillators is illustrated. [Display omitted] • X-ray Excited Optical Luminescence (XEOL) from rare earth doped phosphates and silicates is investigated. • Excitation at the M5,4-edge of the dopants reveals additional information not obtainable with UV/visible light. • Excitation at the M5,4-edge can positively and negatively affect the overall energy transfer to the optical channel. • The application of XEOL in the investigation of X-ray scintillators is illustrated. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• CuI thin films have been synthesized in iodine solution at room temperature. • An apparent NBE peak can be recognized both in PL and XEL spectra. • Iodine-rich condition is beneficial to improve the XEL yield of CuI thin films. CuI is considered as a potential candidate for fast scintillator material due to the fast decay time. However, the ever-reported CuI scintillator usually demonstrates a more intensive deep-level emission with the decay time as long as 2.82 μs, which is unfavorable for the application as a fast scintillator material. In present work, γ-phase CuI were synthesized by iodizing Cu thin films in iodine solution at room temperature. An apparent near band-edge emission (NBE) is observed both in photoluminescence and X-ray excited luminescence spectra. By analyzing the variation of the relative intensity ratio of the sub-peaks composing NBE against different fabrication conditions, it can be deduced that Cu vacancy and surface chemisorbed iodine are responsible for the above luminescence behavior. It is hoped that these findings may boost the exploration of CuI thin films as fast scintillator materials. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

(n-ClC 6 H 4 C 2 H 4 NH 3) 2 PbCl 4 ((n-ClPEA) 2 PbCl 4) (n = 2, 3, and 4) and (n-C 6 H 5 C 2 H 4 NH 3) 2 PbCl 4 ((PEA) 2 PbCl 4) crystals were synthesized by the slow-cooling method, and the photoluminescence (PL) and scintillation properties were evaluated. All the samples showed self-trapped excitons luminescence at 400–700 nm. The PL quantum yields of the (n-ClPEA) 2 PbCl 4 (n = 2, 3, and 4) and (PEA) 2 PbCl 4 crystals were 2.2, 0.9, 11.2, and 2.2 %, respectively. In the pulse-height spectra of 241Am α-rays (5.5 MeV), full energy absorption peaks were observed, and the light yields of (n-ClPEA) 2 PbCl 4 (n = 2, 3, and 4) and (PEA) 2 PbCl 4 crystals were respectively calculated to be 530, 490, 2,800, and 1,400 photons/5.5 MeV-α with typical errors of ± 10 %. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

All-inorganic perovskite quantum dots have been widely used in solar cells, LED, laser and scintillator in recent years. However, the essence of ion migration in perovskite lattice can cause the ion vacancies exist, which can directly affect the luminescence process. Herein, we focus on the effect of monovalent cation vacancies on the CsPbBr 3 lattice, and realize the adjusting lattice structure of the CsPbBr 3 QDs to change the luminescence lifetime by controlling the formation of monovalent cation vacancies. The results show that the existence of monovalent cation vacancies can be controlled by controlling dosages of Cs + precursor and can make the CsPbBr 3 lattice produce local lattice micro distortion and reduce luminescence lifetime, which is beneficial to realize the rapid and efficient X-ray imaging of scintillating crystals. Experimental result is also verified by density functional theory (DFT). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

X-ray luminescent diamond composite films with embedded yttrium-aluminum nanoparticles were designed. Additionally, the stability limits of single-phase solid solutions in systems based on yttrium-aluminum and yttrium-scandium-aluminum garnets doped with cerium were determined. The most intense X-ray luminescence was achieved with the [Y 2·98 Ce 0.02 ]{Al 2 }Al 3 O 12 powder. The composition-optimized nanoparticles were embedded into a polycrystalline diamond matrix to form a diamond-YAG:Ce composite. For the obtained composite, an intense X-ray luminescence from the Ce3+ ions near 550 nm was demonstrated. The designed composites may be used as adjustable and durable scintillating materials for a wide range of applications. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• (Gd 1-x Ce x) 3 (Ga 0.995 Cr 0.005) 5 O 12 single crystals were grown by micro-pulling down method. • The emission wavelengths of these crystals were approximately 730 nm. • Cr was segregated in the center part of the crystals. • The relationship between Cr segregation and emission intensity was investigated. • The correlation coefficients of thoes relationships were around 0.9. For the decommissioning of Fukushima Daiichi Nuclear Plants, a novel real-time dose-rate monitor consisting of a scintillator, 100-m long optical fiber and CCD spectrometer has been proposed, and this scintillation material is required to have an emission wavelength of longer than approximately 650 nm. In this paper, as a candidate material for the system, we focused on Ce/Cr co-doped Gd 3 Ga 5 O 12 (Ce/Cr:GGG) single crystals grown by the micro-pulling down method. Since the light output of this material was expected to depend on the Cr3+ concentration, we investigated the relationship between Cr segregation and luminescence properties in Ce/Cr:GGG crystal. Generally, a single photon counting method is not available to evaluate its light output accurately due to the long decay time, we used a novel technique "emission-intensity two-dimensional- mapping method" (2D-image method) to verify the light intensity at each point of the sample. This method realized estimation of the light intensity within the sample, though segregation of Cr3+ is observed. The results showed that Cr was concentrated in the center part along the radial direction in the grown crystals, while all parts had an emission wavelength of approximately 730 nm excited by X-ray. Using the 2D-image method, emission intensity was found to correspond to the Cr concentration, and its correlation coefficients between emission intensity and Cr concentration were over 0.8. We found that our material is available for the monitoring system when the Cr dense part of the crystal is cut and used. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• CeF 3 -doped CaF 2 transparent ceramics were fabricated by spark plasma sintering. • The transparent ceramics showed luminescence due to the 5d→4f transitions of Ce3+. • A direct correlation between scintillation light yields and TSL/OSL intensities was demonstrated. We report on the luminescence properties of CaF 2 transparent ceramics having various concentrations of CeF 3 (0.1 %, 0.5 %, and 1 %). Scintillation emissions centered at approximately 318, 345, and 386 nm derived from the 5d→4f transition of Ce3+ were detected, and scintillation light yields were determined to be 8600 photons/MeV (0.1 % CeF 3), 1930 photons/MeV (0.5 % CeF 3), and 1850 photons/MeV (1 % CeF 3) under gamma-ray irradiation from 241Am. The Ce-doped CaF 2 transparent ceramics showed thermally stimulated luminescence (TSL) with a broad glow peak at around 115–145 °C, and their dose response curves were determined over a broad dose range (0.01–3 mGy). Moreover, optically stimulated luminescence (OSL) exponential decay curves were obtained under 500 nm stimulation light, and dose response curves were obtained in the dose range of 0.1–100 mGy. The minimum detectable dose was estimated to be 0.1 mGy. A direct correlation between scintillation light yields under gamma-ray irradiation and TSL/OSL intensities was demonstrated. [Display omitted] [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Cerium-doped lutetium yttrium orthosilicate (LYSO:Ce) powders were synthesized using the co-precipitation method. The influence of sintering temperature on the crystallization and luminescence characteristics of LYSO:Ce powders was investigated via X-ray diffraction (XRD) and photoluminescence (PL). The XRD measurements indicate that the crystallization of LYSO:Ce powders was affected by sintering temperature. PL results show that with the increase of sintering temperature, LYSO:Ce samples have better luminescence properties. A dosimeter was also fabricated using LYSO:Ce powders with 0.3 mol% Ce doping concentration for an optimum result. Radioluminescence properties of the radiation dosimeter were studied using calibrated 60Co gamma sources in the dose range from 232.66 to 1022.26 mGy. The results show that the dosimeter response under γ-rays irradiation has a certain linear response and stability, indicating its potential applications in remote radiotherapy and real-time radiation monitoring. • LYSO:Ce crystal powder as scintillitor material was synthesized by co-precipitation method. • LYSO:Ce with different sintering temperature has been systematically investigated. • A dosimeter was made with the optimal LYSO:Ce crystal powder for low dose gamma radiation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

(C 4 H 9 NH 3) 2 PbI 4 and (C 6 H 5 C 4 H 8 NH 3) 2 PbI 4 single crystals were synthesized by the slow cooling method, and their optical and scintillation properties were evaluated. Both samples had sharp X-ray diffraction peaks with intervals of (0 0 2 l) (l = 5–7). Absorption edges of (C 4 H 9 NH 3) 2 PbI 4 and (C 6 H 5 C 4 H 8 NH 3) 2 PbI 4 were confirmed at 535 and 520 nm, respectively. They showed luminescence due to the recombination of excitons at 500–700 nm. Scintillation decay times at 0.5–0.7 ns were obtained by approximation of decay curves. The light yields of (C 4 H 9 NH 3) 2 PbI 4 and (C 6 H 5 C 4 H 8 NH 3) 2 PbI 4 were respectively evaluated to be 1200 and 1500 photons/5.5 MeV-α by measuring full absorption peaks of 241Am α-rays. • (C 4 H 9 NH 3) 2 PbI 4 and (C 6 H 5 C 4 H 8 NH 3) 2 PbI 4 single crystals were grown by the slow cooling method. • Luminescence due to the recombination of free excitons was observed. • Scintillation decay times of sub-nanoseconds were observed. • Light yield of (C 6 H 5 C 4 H 8 NH 3) 2 PbI 4 was 1500 photons/5.5 MeV-α. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

0.05, 0.1, 0.5, and 1.0 % Dy-doped YVO 4 single crystals were prepared by the optical floating zone technique to obtain photoluminescence (PL) and scintillation properties. All the samples showed the emission owing to charge transfer from V5+ ions to O2− ions inside [VO 4 ]3- and the 4f–4f transitions of Dy3+ ions. Light yields exhibited 37,000 (0.05 % Dy), 42,000 (0.1 % Dy), 44,000 (0.5 % Dy), and 39,000 photons/MeV (1.0 % Dy), based on the pulse height spectra. In afterglow properties, afterglow levels were 37.7 (0.05 % Dy), 25.7 (0.1 % Dy), 23.2 (0.5 % Dy), and 20.6 (1.0 % Dy) ppm. • We have synthesized Dy-doped YVO 4 single crystals by floating zone method. • We have characterized the photoluminescence, and scintillation properties of the Dy-doped YVO 4 single crystal. • Pulse height spectra revealed that the light yield of 0.05, 0.1, 0.5, and 1.0 % Dy-doped YVO 4 single crystals was 37,000, 42,000, 44,000, and 39,000 photons/MeV, respectively. • In afterglow properties, afterglow levels were 37.7 (0.05 % Dy), 25.7 (0.1 % Dy), 23.2 (0.5 % Dy), and 20.6 (1.0 % Dy) ppm. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• G2 glass matched with F2 glass (Schott) was used to draw fiber. • A linear increase and efficient response at 374 nm were obtained in G2 glass with X-ray radiation. • G2 glass material has an ideal and stable optical response. • G2 glass fiber has an emission at about 375 nm and a short fluorescence lifetime (2.22 ns). In order to enrich the application demands of neutron detection field, this study prepared a series of Ce3+/Gd3+ co-doped borosilicate scintillating glass materials. The ultraviolet (UV) absorption edges were all below 400 nm. The optical band gap was shortened from 3.48 eV to 3.24 eV as well as the optical basicity increased from 0.4941 to 0.5063 with the added concentration of Gd3+ ions. When the samples were excited by a 330 nm light source, the central wavelength of the emission spectra was 375 nm. The fluorescence lifetime of the sample was 30.99 ns. The emission intensity of the G2 sample increases linearly with the increase of X-ray excitation current, and has a stable optical response at 374 nm. The G2 glass fiber with the highest fluorescence intensity had a prominent emission peak at 375 nm and the fluorescence lifetime of 2.22 ns. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

We fabricated BaCaBO 3 F (BCBF) with various Dy concentrations (0.1 %, 1 %, and 5 %), and evaluated the luminescence properties for radiation dosimetry. Sharp scintillation peaks originating from the 4f → 4f transition of Dy3+ were observed. Furthermore, thermally stimulated luminescence (TSL) glow curves were recorded, and a TSL glow peak at approximately 120 °C was observed. The 0.1 % Dy-doped BCBF exhibited the highest TSL intensity, and dose response curves of the 0.1–1 % Dy-doped BCBF were obtained in the 0.1–10000 mGy range. Moreover, at least seven activation energy levels related to TSL were confirmed by the TSL isothermal decay analysis. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Optical and scintillation properties of 50 AE O-50SiO 2 -1SnO (AE = Mg, Ca, Sr, Ba) glasses were investigated. In photoluminescence (PL) and scintillation, the glasses showed a luminescence peak around 400 nm which was attributed to the T 1 -S 0 transitions of Sn2+. The afterglow levels of the AE = Mg and Ba glasses were better than that of a commercial Tl-doped CsI scintillator. The light yields of the glasses were quantitatively acquired and the AE = Ba glass showed the highest light yield of 63 ph/5.5 MeV-α of among the glasses. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This work is dedicated to investigation of the luminescent properties of the prospective photoconversion material based on the crystal of Ce3+ doped Ca 3 Sc 2 Si 3 O 12 (CSSG) garnet. The GSSG:Ce crystal was grown using the micro-pulling-down (μPD) method. The CSSG:Ce crystal exhibited an intensive photoluminescence (PL) emission band with two sub-bands peaked at 504 and 545 nm, corresponding to 5d-4f (2F 5/2;7/2) transitions. Furthermore, we have investigated also the formation of cerium multicenters in the GSSG:Ce crystal using analyses of the structure of Ce3+ photoluminescence emission and excitation spectra under excitation of the luminescence of this crystal by synchrotron radiation. The formation of Ce3+-multicenters in CSSG:Ce garnet is caused by the local inhomogeneity of the dodecahedral sites of garnet lattice due to localization of the hetero-valent Sc3+ and Si4+ cations in the octahedral and tetrahedral positions of the garnet host. The existence of Ce3+ multicenters resulted in a significant enhancement of the Ce3+ emission band in the red range and improving the performance of conventional YAG:Ce phosphor. The next task of our work was to evaluate the possibility of application of the GSSG:Ce crystal as a light phosphor-converter (pc) for white light-emitting diodes (WLEDs). In the frame of this task, we have successfully developed a prototype of WLED by employing the CSSG:Ce crystal as a phosphor-converter (pc) with blue 450 emitting LED as well as investigated the color characteristics of this pc-WLED. • Ca 3 Sc 2 Si 3 O 12 :Ce (CSSG:Ce) crystal was grown by micropulling down method. • Presence of two different Ce1 and Ce2 emission centers was detected CSSG:Ce crystals. • Luminescent properties and energy structure of F+ and F centers in CSSG host were studied. • Prototypes of a white LED based on CSSG:Ce phosphor and blue LED were developed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

(C 6 H 5 C 2 H 4 NH 3) 2 Pb 1- x Ca x Br 4 (x = 0.05, 0.1, and 0.25) crystals were grown by the solvent diffusion method and evaluated for the photoluminescence and scintillation properties. When irradiated by X-rays, emission peaking at 440 nm due to exciton emission was observed. The pulse height spectra of (C 6 H 5 C 2 H 4 NH 3) 2 Pb 1- x Ca x Br 4 under 137Cs γ-ray irradiation demonstrate that the light yields were 20,000, 17,000, and 16,000 ph/MeV in x = 0.05, 0.1, and 0.25 samples, respectively. Ca-substitution significantly enhances the photoluminescence quantum yield and scintillation light yield. • (C 6 H 5 C 2 H 4 NH 3) 2 (Pb,Ca)Br 4 crystals were evaluated for the photoluminescence and scintillation properties. • (C 6 H 5 C 2 H 4 NH 3) 2 (Pb,Ca)Br 4 crystals exhibit a sharp emission peaking at 440 nm due to exciton luminescence. • Pulse height spectra under 137Cs γ-rays demonstrate the light yields was 20,000 ph/MeV. • Ca-substitution enhances both the photoluminescence and scintillation properties. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]