Scintillators for medical imaging

Abstract

In this paper, we will address the several factors underlying the performance of scintillators in terms of light yield and energy resolution in the high-end medical imaging applications CT (Computed Tomography) and PET (Positron Emission Tomography. The state-of-the-art scintillators that are being applied in these modalities are discussed as well. We also address important scintillator properties like light yield, decay time and afterglow, energy resolution and the corresponding material- and activator choices. Finally, an outlook on these materials and technologies is presented.