Modifications of micro-pulling-down method for the growth of selected Li-containing crystals for neutron scintillator and VUV scintillation crystals

To develop new and efficient neutron scintillator, Ti-doped LiAlO2 single crystal was grown by micro-pulling-down method. The X-ray excited radioluminescence spectra and neutron light yield were measured. Positive effect of Mg codoping on the overall scintillation efficiency was found. The BaLu2F8 single crystal was grown by micro-pulling-down method using low temperature gradient at growth interface and applying quenching immediately after growth process.

► The micro-pulling-down method was modified for self-flux growth of LiAlO2.
► Mg2+ codoping improved the scintillation properties of LiAlO2: Ti.
► Neutron light yield of codoped LiAlO2: Ti, Mg exceeded that of Li-glass scintillator.
► Quenching process was introduced to the method to obtain BaLu2F8 crystal.