Physics aspects of light particle registration in PADC detectors of type CR-39

In the paper the registration sensitivity of light swift charged projectiles in Solid State Nuclear Track Detectors (SSNTD) of type CR-39 is investigated. Comparing experimental data and their interpretation in terms of empirical and semi-empirical models, the influence of physics aspects of particle transport in solids on the registration sensitivity is studied. Taking into account the energy loss along the particle trajectory by particle–matter interaction the basic properties of the sensitivity functions for registration of protons, deuterons and ions of 4He, 7Li, 11B, 12C, 14N and 16O are described. However, a unique interpretation in terms of physics of particle penetration into a solid cannot be achieved. Deviations from fundamental physics are highlighted and discussed.