The comparison of radiation and photochemical stability of luminophores in polystyrene scintillators

The kinetics of photoluminescence and secondary luminophore consumption was studied during γ radiolysis or photolysis of polystyrene film scintillators in air. The stability of secondary luminophores was considered as a substantial factor that has an effect on the overall stability of scintillators. Radiation chemical and quantum yields of luminophore consumption were estimated. The influence of primary luminophores on the secondary luminophore stability as well as on the overall stability of scintillators was analysed. It was shown that radiation stability of scintillators in a number of cases is practically determined by secondary processes that occur with the participation of excited states of the polymer and luminophores.