Applying Novel Material Characterization Techniques using Ultrafast Laser Excitation and Neutron Diffraction in Radiation Detector Crystals

Abstract

To address outstanding issues in the growth and performance of crystals for radiation detection, I develop and employ several material characterization techniques not previously implemented in the field. Two main, interconnected issues are addressed: the cracking of certain crystals during the growth process and spatial inhomogeneity in the defect distributions of radiation detector crystals. Although the purpose of these materials is to detect high-energy gamma rays, no gamma rays were used in these studies. Instead, much can be learned from the more precise interactions of low-energy photon and neutron beams.