Quantum and Nanophotonic Perspectives on Light–Matter Interaction in Scintillation

Scintillators are central to radiation detection, yet their performance is fundamentally constrained by bulk crystal chemistry and fixed radiative pathways. This review examines how quantum effects and engineered light–matter interactions redefine scintillation beyond these classical limits. We survey recent advances in low-dimensional and nanostructured scintillators, where quantum confinement, excitonic effects, and multiexciton dynamics enable higher light yield, faster decay, and improved radiation hardness compared to conventional bulk materials. Special emphasis is given to engineered energy-transfer mechanisms and collective emission processes that substantially modify recombination dynamics at the nanoscale. Next, we discuss nanophotonic and nanoplasmonic approaches that manipulate the local density of optical states, highlighting Purcell-enhanced scintillation and pathways toward tunable coupling strength in cavity quantum electrodynamics regimes. Finally, we outline emerging applications enabled by light–matter-coupled scintillators, including photon-counting computed tomography, time-of-flight positron emission tomography, and nuclear batteries. Together, these developments establish a framework in which scintillation performance can be tailored through quantum design and optical mode engineering rather than host lattice chemistry alone.