Crystal growth of large diameter LaBr3:Ce and CeBr3

LaBr3:Ce and CeBr3 are novel inorganic scintillators for gamma-ray detection and spectroscopy. Both materials exhibit exceptional scintillation properties, such as very high light output, fast response and excellent energy resolution. Custom equipment was built for crystal growth and handling of the moisture- and oxygen-sensitive materials. Crystal growth runs of large diameter crystals of LaBr3:Ce and pure CeBr3 were conducted in vertical multizone-zone Bridgman systems due to their operational simplicity and the potential for reduced thermal shock to the crystals. Procedures were developed to prepare clean charges, inhibit the formation of oxyhalides, and reduce the residual stresses and cracks in the crystals.