New Trends in the Development of A $^{\rm II}$ B $^ {\rm VI}$ -Based Scintillators

Data are presented on preparation methods, properties, and main application fields of semiconductor chalcogenide scintillators (CS) on the basis of zinc selenide and other A^IIB^VI compounds. Peculiar features and mechanisms of the CS luminescence are discussed. CS luminescence spectra maximums are located within the range 590-640 nm, depending on the method of preparing the scintillator. The luminescence decay time ranges within 0.5-3 and 30-50 mus. The afterglow level is less than 0.001-0.01% after 5-20 ms, and the radiation stability is ges 5 times 10⁸ rad. Certain application fields of the new CS are examined taking into account their particular properties.