ORGANIC CRYSTAL SCINTILLATORS FOR FAST NEUTRON DETECTION AND IMAGING APPLICATIONS

This chapter reviews the organic crystal scintillators and their role in fast neutron detection applications. Key performance metrics “Figure of Merit (FOM), decay time, light yield, and emission characteristics” are compared to assess detection capabilities. Criteria for selecting suitable crystals are outlined, emphasizing the relationship between structural, optical, and radiation-response properties. Special attention is given to neutron–gamma Pulse Shape Discrimination (PSD), critical for signal accuracy and noise reduction. Additionally, it analyzes the fast neutron response of Triphenyl Benzene (TPB) and Trans Stilbene(TSB) crystals grown via the modified Vertical Bridgman technique, including radioluminescence, decay time, and pulse-height spectra, to elucidate the interplay between material structure and scintillation efficiency. Finally, strategies for optimizing crystal scintillators for highprecision, next- generation gamma–neutron detection are outlined.