Some methodological techniques for luminescence imaging using an IPD

Abstract

An Imaging Photon Detector (IPD) can be used to obtain quantitative TL or IRSL images of the luminescence distribution in a mineral or pottery slice, or to measure the luminescence from individual mineral grains. Properties of the IPD itself, such as resolution and speed of response to the photon flux are important characteristics which will have important consequences for experimental design. However, the range of experiments that are possible in imaging studies are also dependent on the experimental system as a whole, such as the optics used, and the detector characteristics. In this paper the behaviour of such a system, using an IPD as the detector, is described. The consequences for the experimental methodologies adopted are also discussed, as are the range of measurements that are achievable from such a system.