National Security Technologies (NSTec) is seeking sources to a new class of radiation scintillators using nanomaterials (ZnS, CdS, CdSe, ZnSe, LaF₃:Ce, LaBr₃:Ce, LaCl₃:Ce, CeBr₃, CeF₃, SiO₂, or shelled nanoparticles).  NSTec requests samples of nanocomposite radiation detectors for developmental testing.  Detector nanoparticles ranging in diameter from 10 to 55 nm are to be embedded in translucent carrier detector materials.  The desired sample sizes are 1 cc or larger.  In order to explore a new class of scintillator materials that combines good energy resolution, large size and low cost, we are investigating attributes of  large-scale synthesis of narrowly size-distributed <100 nm nanoparticles (for instance, Ce:LaX3, where X = F, Cl, or Br).  The synthesis of the nanoparticles used must be scalable to large quantities, and the particles can be cast into transparent oleic acid or polymer composites with up to 60% scintillator volume loading (minimum of 5% is required).  Vendor must have proven experience in the production of detector materials, and the ability to provide the detector samples by September 23, 2010.  In addition, Vendor may be requested to provide up to 10 hours of technical support to assist in the assessment of the detector samples and analysis of the data NSTec acquires with the samples.

Interested parties are to provide a brief capability statement, a Rough Order Magnitude (ROM) and an estimated time line. 

Please send your response via email to:  [email protected]

Please provide Reponses by:  Close of Business - August 5, 2010