Blue-emitting polystyrene scintillators for plastic scintillation dosimetry

Abstract Objectives Purpose of this research was to find the best blue-emitting fluorescent substance for plastic scintillator used for gamma radiation dosimetry. Scintillator should convert gamma radiation into blue light with high efficiency. Methods Plastic scintillators with fixed concentration of various fluorescent additives, called wavelength shifters, absorbing ultraviolet light and emitting blue light were manufactured by radical bulk polymerization of styrene. Light output were measured and compared to the light output of commercial plastic scintillator. Results Performed measurements of charge Compton spectra confirmed usefulness of majority of researched substances as wavelength shifters in plastic scintillators with emission maximum at blue range of visible light. Conclusions Plastic scintillation dosimeter may be constructed from manufactured polystyrene-based scintillators. Performance of synthesized scintillators is close to commercial polystyrene scintillators.