Radiation resistance and optical properties of lead fluoride Cherenkov crystals

Abstract Optical properties of large size lead fluoride (PbF 2 ) crystals of three different manufacturers and their degradation caused by 60 Co γ-radiation have been investigated. Transmission losses have been systematically studied at absorbed energy doses between 0.1 and 7 kGy. Several radiation induced absorption bands have been observed. Optical bleaching with light of wavelengths ≳365 nm has been found very effective to restore the original characteristics even after repeated irradiations. This observation together with the high density and the ultraviolet extended transmission make PbF 2 an excellent choice for high rate and high resolution e.m. calorimetry.