Radioluminescent glass and fibers for neutron detection

Abstract

Modern advances in high-energy physics have established neutrons as essential probes in scientific research, enabling breakthroughs ranging from high-energy physics, industrial manufacturing, and materials innovation to heritage conservation, medical diagnostics, and geological prospecting. The diminishing supply of ³He gas detectors has increased the demand for cost-efficient alternative neutron-detecting materials. Solid-state glass scintillators demonstrate particular promise due to their low cost, scalable production, and shape adaptability. However, improving their detection efficiency remains challenging due to the structural complexity of glass systems. This review outlines the neutron detection mechanisms and critical performance benchmarks and evaluates recent advances in the development of glass scintillators. Focusing on activator engineering and matrix optimization, we assess the current progress and existing challenges in scintillator performances. We further discuss the innovations in glass fiber device architectures and their emerging applications in neutron imaging. This article concludes with prospects for future research, emphasizing mechanisms, materials engineering, efficiency optimization, and advanced fiber-based detector systems.