Response of Cs2LiYCl6:Ce (CLYC) to high energy protons

Abstract

Cs2LiYCl6:Ce (CLYC) is a promising new inorganic scintillator for gamma and neutron detection. As a gamma-ray detector, it exhibits bright light output and better resolution and proportionality of response than traditional gamma-ray scintillators such as NaI. It is also highly sensitive to thermal neutrons through capture on 6 Li, and recent experiments have demonstrated sensitivity to fast neutrons through interactions with 35 Cl. The response of CLYC to other forms of radiation has not been addressed. We have performed the first reported measurements of the response of CLYC to several-hundred MeV protons. We have collected digitized waveforms from proton events, and compare to those produced by gammas and thermal neutrons. Finally we discuss the potential for pulse shape discrimination between them.