A Review on Plastic Scintillator Development and Performance for Gamma-Ray Detection

Plastic scintillators are extensively used for gamma-ray detection because of their affordability, rapid response time, and mechanical adaptability. Their development is crucial in optimizing performance, with material composition being a key factor. The selection of base polymers, fluorophores, and wavelength shifters significantly impacts essential properties such as optical properties and light yield. Furthermore, incorporating high-Z elements in loaded plastic scintillators enhances their gamma-ray detection efficiency. In addition to material selection, advancements in fabrication techniques have also contributed to performance improvements. This review provides a comprehensive overview of the composition and manufacturing processes involved in plastic scintillator development, covering thermal polymerization, room-temperature polymerization, injection molding, extrusion, ultraviolet curing, and three-dimensional printing. By exploring recent advancements and future directions, this review serves as a valuable resource for researchers focused on the continued enhancement of plastic scintillator technology.