The response functions of a CsI(Tl) scintillator with photodiode readout to light and heavy ions in the intermediate energy range

The luminescent response of a CsI(Tl) crystal has been determined for light and heavy ions (Z ≤ 14) with energies up to 800 MeV. These fragments were produced in a 28Si + 28Si reaction at beam energies between 22 and 35 MeV/nucleon. A nonlinear response was observed over the entire energy range. A parametrization of the light output, L(Z, E), is given. The scintillator response was found to be proportional to E1.3 for Z ≥ 3. The scintillation efficiency has been determined. The overall features can be described within an existing model, if the effect of secondary electrons is taken into account. (orig.)