Application of prompt luminescence from an imaging plate for heavy particle detector

We have been investigating the basic characteristics of an imaging plate (IP) to develop a new type of ultra-heavy particle detector. To acquire the information on the deposited energy, photostimulated luminescence (PSL) from the injection position has been utilized usually, which occurs by scanning the surface of the IP with laser beam after the exposure of particles. However, for the use of the PSL, there is a disadvantage that the PSL fades as with time. On the other hand, when heavy particles are injected to the IP, prompt luminescence (PL) also occurs from the injection position at the instant. We have succeeded in detecting the prompt luminescence from each heavy particle with the energy of several hundred MeV/n. Since the PL is useful for quick detection of the injection position, the PSL data can be read within a few seconds by scanning the determined position before the serious fading effect arises