Bismuth Germanate (Bi4Ge3O12), commonly abbreviated as BGO, is a widely used scintillation crystal known for its exceptional properties in radiation detection. This crystal is particularly appreciated for its high density and effective atomic number, making it an excellent material for detecting high-energy photons such as gamma rays.
Properties of Bismuth Germanate (BGO):
- High Density and Atomic Number: BGO’s high density and atomic number make it highly effective at absorbing gamma rays and other high-energy particles, which is crucial for reducing scatter and improving detection efficiency.
- Moderate Light Yield: While BGO does not have the highest light yield among scintillation materials, its light output is sufficient for many practical applications, especially where its high stopping power is more critical.
- Slow Decay Time: BGO has a relatively slow decay time compared to other scintillators like Ce:LaBr3 or NaI(Tl). This characteristic can be a limitation in very high rate environments but is suitable for applications where resolution and precision are prioritized.
- Robust and Durable: The material is mechanically robust and not hygroscopic, making it easier to handle and maintain compared to many other scintillators that require special environmental controls.
Applications:
- High-Energy Physics Experiments: BGO is commonly used in particle detectors in physics research, where its properties are ideal for detecting high-energy gamma rays.
- Medical Imaging: It is used in some types of PET (Positron Emission Tomography) scanners, particularly in scenarios where its high stopping power can be leveraged to improve image quality.
- Environmental and Geological Surveys: BGO’s robustness makes it suitable for use in gamma-ray spectrometry, which is used for geological mapping and environmental monitoring.
- Security and Inspection Systems: In security applications, BGO is used for cargo scanning and other types of radiation inspection systems that require the detection of radioactive materials.
The production of BGO crystals involves the growth of large single crystals, which must be carefully controlled to ensure uniformity and quality. The robustness and radiation hardness of BGO make it a favored choice in many applications where high-energy photon detection is required, despite its relatively slower response time.
Shapeoptics is Able to Offer
- Good quality BGO scintillation crystal
- Good quality BGO crystal blank materials
- OEM service for good quality BGO crystals
Crystal Properties
| Density / g.cm-3 | 7.13 |
| Melting Point / ℃ | 1050 |
| Radiation Length / mm | 11 |
| Refractive Index | 2.15 |
| Emission Peak / nm | 480 |
| Decay Constant / ns | 300 |
| Light Output | 11% ~ 14% |
| Energy Resolution | 20% ( 511 Kev ) |
| Crystal Structure | Cubic System |
Bismuth Germanate, Bi4Ge3O12 (BGO) as a scintillation crystal, with high scintillation efficiency under radiation of -rays, widely used in the application of High Energy Physics, Nuclear Physics, Nuclear Medicine Imaging, Geological Prospecting, Oil well logging and other industries.
Shapeoptics offers a comprehensive range of materials and advanced equipment for custom and OEM optical components, leveraging over 20 years of expertise in manufacturing lenses, prisms, windows, and more. We utilize high-quality materials like UV and IR grade fused silica, Germanium, and ZnSe, among others. Our state-of-the-art techniques and equipment minimize waste and optimize delivery times. Our in-house capabilities include standard and custom coatings across the UV-NIR spectrum, ensuring high quality and compliance with all industry standards. For precision and reliability in optics, contact Shapeoptics for your next project.
