Abstract: A scintillator assembly for use in conjunction with a photomultiplier or the like in the detection of alpha radiation utilizes a substrate or transparent yttrium aluminum garnet and a relatively thin film of cerium-doped yttrium aluminum garnet coated upon the substrate. The film material is applied to the substrate in a sputtering process, and the applied film and substrate are annealed to effect crystallization of the film upon the substrate. The resultant assembly provides relatively high energy resolution during use in a detection instrument and is sufficiently rugged for use in field environments.
Type:
Grant
Filed:
August 12, 1992
Date of Patent:
July 26, 1994
Assignee:
Martin Marietta Energy Systems, Inc.
Inventors:
Robert J. Lauf, Stephanie A. McElhaney, John B. Bates