In the realm of nuclear security and high-energy physics, the quest for efficient and fast scintillator screens has taken a significant leap forward. Researchers, led by Murat Kurudirek from the University of Surrey’s Department of Physics, have published a groundbreaking study in the journal Discover Nano (which translates to “Nano World” in English). The research delves into the synergistic effects of doping zinc oxide (ZnO) nanorods with aluminum (Al), gallium (Ga), and indium (In) to create highly efficient and fast scintillator screens.
Scintillator screens are crucial for detecting alpha particles, playing a pivotal role in nuclear security, nonproliferation, and high-energy physics. The challenge has always been to achieve both high light output and fast decay properties simultaneously. Kurudirek and his team have tackled this issue head-on, investigating the near band edge (NBE) UV luminescence and alpha particle-induced scintillation properties of vertically aligned, densely packed ZnO nanorods.
The team employed a cost-effective green hydrothermal synthesis technique to grow well-aligned nanorods. By using citrate as an additive, they acted as a strong reducing agent during crystal growth, significantly suppressing defects on the surface and enhancing the NBE UV emission. “The citrate-assisted donor doping not only reduces defect emission and NBE self-absorption but also induces fast decay time,” explains Kurudirek. This breakthrough makes ZnO nanorods a promising candidate for fast alpha particle scintillator screens used in associated particle imaging for time and direction tagging of individual neutrons generated in D–T and D–D neutron generators.
The implications of this research are profound for the energy sector. Fast and efficient scintillator screens can enhance the precision and speed of neutron detection, which is vital for nuclear security and safety. This advancement could lead to improved monitoring systems in nuclear power plants, more effective detection of illicit nuclear materials, and better tools for high-energy physics research.
Kurudirek’s work highlights the potential of ZnO nanorods doped with Al, Ga, and In to revolutionize the field of scintillation detectors. As the energy sector continues to evolve, the need for advanced detection technologies becomes ever more critical. This research not only addresses current challenges but also paves the way for future innovations in ultrafast scintillators and alpha particle detection.
In the words of Kurudirek, “This study opens new avenues for the development of highly efficient and fast scintillator screens, which are essential for various applications in the energy sector.” The publication in Discover Nano underscores the significance of this research and its potential to shape the future of nuclear and high-energy physics technologies.