Plastic scintillators are typically made from a combination of organic scintillating materials and a polymer matrix. The organic scintillating materials are compounds that emit light when excited by ionizing radiation. Commonly used organic scintillators include aromatic hydrocarbons such as styrene, toluene, and p-terphenyl. These scintillating materials are dissolved or dispersed within a polymer matrix, which provides the structure and stability to the plastic scintillator.
The polymer matrix used in plastic scintillators is often based on polystyrene or polyvinyltoluene. These polymers have good optical transparency and are compatible with the organic scintillating materials. The choice of polymer matrix depends on factors such as the desired emission wavelength, radiation sensitivity, and mechanical properties of the plastic scintillator.
The combination of the organic scintillating materials and polymer matrix in plastic scintillators allows them to convert ionizing radiation, such as gamma rays or beta particles, into visible light signals. These light signals can then be detected and measured using photomultiplier tubes or other light-sensing devices to determine the presence and intensity of the radiation.
Plastic scintillators are widely used in various applications, including radiation detection, medical imaging, nuclear physics research, and homeland security, due to their versatility, durability, and cost-effectiveness compared to other scintillation materials.