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Scintillation light detection in polycrystalline diamond using single photon detectors

Journal Article · · Journal of Instrumentation
Here, this study investigates the scintillation properties of polycrystalline diamond for particle detection applications, particularly in neutron and alpha radiation environments. Polycrystalline diamonds provide a cost-effective alternative to monocrystalline diamonds while retaining essential detection properties. Photoluminescence measurements were performed to analyze emission spectra, revealing distinct characteristics based on impurity content and crystallinity. Scintillation responses were assessed using Silicon Photomultipliers (SiPMs), demonstrating the capability of polycrystalline diamond powders to respond to alpha irradiation, albeit with reduced resolution compared to traditional scintillators. A prototype neutron detector was developed by combining diamond powder with neutron-sensitive 6LiF, and its performance was evaluated through experimental testing and Geant4 simulations. The findings indicate that polycrystalline diamond-based detectors can achieve significant detection efficiency while remaining insensitive to gamma radiation, offering potential for portable neutron detection applications.
Research Organization:
Brookhaven National Laboratory (BNL), Upton, NY (United States)
Sponsoring Organization:
USDOE Office of Science (SC), Basic Energy Sciences (BES)
Grant/Contract Number:
SC0012704
OSTI ID:
2574090
Report Number(s):
BNL--228476-2025-JAAM
Journal Information:
Journal of Instrumentation, Journal Name: Journal of Instrumentation Vol. 20; ISSN 1748-0221
Publisher:
Institute of Physics (IOP)Copyright Statement
Country of Publication:
United States
Language:
English

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