crystals as detectors for decay and dark matter experiments

Energy resolution, α / β ratio, and the pulse shape discrimination ability of the ZnWO 4 crystal scintillators were studied. The radioactive contamination of a ZnWO 4 crystal was investigated in the Solotvina Underground Laboratory. Possibilities to apply ZnWO 4 crystals for the dark matter and double beta decay searches are discussed. New improved half-life limits on double beta decay in zinc isotopes were established, in particular, for ɛ β + decay of 64 Zn as: T 1 / 2 2 ν ⩾ 8.9 × 10 18 years and T 1 / 2 0 ν ⩾ 3.6 × 10 18 years, both at 68% CL.