Radiation damage to 2-(2′-hydroxyphenyl)benzothiazoles

Abstract The fluorescent organic compound 2-(2′-hydroxyphenyl)benzothiazole (HBT) has been modified by substitution at various positions of the phenyl ring in order to increase its quantum yield. Each derivative has been tested as a dopant in a polystyrene matrix for plastic scintillator applications. The transmittance, fluorescence, scintillation light yield, and radiation damage characteristics of these compounds in polystyrene have been determined. In addition, a comparative study of the HBT derivatives and 3-hydroxyflavone (3HF) has been performed. Only samples doped with the 4CNHBT derivative exhibit light yield and radiation resistance similar to those doped with 3HF.