ZnWO4 crystals as detectors for 2β decay and dark matter experiments

Energy resolution, α/β ratio, and the pulse shape discrimination ability of the ZnWO4 crystal scintillators were studied. The radioactive contamination of a ZnWO4 crystal was investigated in the Solotvina Underground Laboratory. Possibilities to apply ZnWO4 crystals for the dark matter and double beta decay searches are discussed. New improved half-life limits on double beta decay in zinc isotopes were established, in particular, for ɛβ+ decay of 64Zn as: T1/22ν⩾8.9×1018 years and T1/20ν⩾3.6×1018 years, both at 68% CL.