Application of LaBr3(Ce3+) scintillators in radio-isotope identification devices

The advantage of LaBr₃(Ce³⁺) over NaI(TI) scintillators with respect to gamma spectroscopy and radioisotope identification has been discussed in many papers. However, implementing such detectors in field instruments for routine use in homeland security applications differs from demonstrating their capabilities in a laboratory. This paper reviews several issues solved in the development phase of a commercial hand-held radio-isotope identification device (RIID), the identiFINDER^reg ultra L. Aspects as the detector stabilization, selection and optimization of an appropriate photomultiplier tube, as well as calibration, spectrum linearization, and quality assurance procedures in the production process are addressed.