Methodological and Conceptual Progresses in Studies on the Latent Tracks in PADC

Area of Science:

• Materials Science
• Nuclear Physics
• Radiation Detection

Background:

• Poly (allyl diglycol carbonate) (PADC) is a sensitive etched track detector.
• Understanding track formation is crucial for developing advanced detectors.
• Investigating radiation interactions at the molecular level is key.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate the modified structure along latent tracks in PADC.
• To elucidate the track formation process for various ions.
• To establish new criteria for radiation detection thresholds.

Main Methods:

• FT-IR spectrometry was used to examine track structures of protons and heavy ions (He, C, Ne, Ar, Fe, Kr, Xe).
• Experiments with low-linear energy transfer (LET) radiation confirmed a multi-step damage process.
• Geant4-DNA simulations were performed to evaluate secondary electron distribution.

Main Results:

• A novel layered structure within tracks was discovered, correlated with secondary electron count.
• Etch pit formation was linked to the destruction of at least two PADC repeat-units radially.
• New physical criteria for detection thresholds were proposed, addressing issues with semi-relativistic C ions.

Conclusions:

• The study unveils a layered track structure in PADC, providing insights into radiation damage mechanisms.
• New physical and chemical criteria, including hydroxyl group formation density, are proposed for PADC response.
• This research advances the understanding of etched track detector physics and material modification.