Detection of prompt luminescence from an imaging plate with heavy particle injection

We have been investigating the basic characteristics of an imaging plate JP) 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 is usually utilized, which occurs upon scanning the surface of the IP with a laser beam after the exposure of particles. However, in the use of PSL, there is the disadvantage that it fades with time. On the other hand, when heavy particles are injected to the IP, prompt luminescence (PL) also occurs from the injection position. 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 any serious fading effect occurs.