TASTRAK PADC

TASTRAK™ is supplied to over 80 countries worldwide.

TASTRAK™, a form of polyallyl diglycol carbonate (PADC), also known as CR-39, is a clear, stable plastic which is sensitive to energetic protons, alpha-particles and heavier nuclei. Fast neutrons are recorded via proton-recoil reactions and thermal neutrons using a boron radiator and alpha-particle recording via the ¹⁰B(n,α)⁷Li reaction. After exposure, the tracks may be revealed by etching the material in solutions such as caustic alkalis.

TASTRAK™ has numerous applications in radiation detection, including radon measurements in the home, the workplace and in the ground, neutron dosimetry, laser plasma fusion studies, Cosmic Ray and Space Physics, Proton Beam Therapy and Neutron Capture Therapy. It has also been utilised in alpha-particle autoradiography and low-level counting, uranium exploration, nuclear particle discharge measurements and the teaching of radioactivity in schools and colleges. The erstwhile Human Radiation Effects Group in the Physics Department at Bristol University used TASTRAK™ for analysing natural alpha-radioactivity in the human body and for a wide range of studies of natural alpha-emitters in the environment.

All of our TASTRAK™ detectors are fully batch TESTED for their track response and ultra-low background.

Cut plastics may be of any size, rectangular, circular or of more complex shape. Scribed features include rectangular boxes, circles, incrementing numbers, dot codes, titles and drilled holes. We will be pleased to supply customised cut and engraved TASTRAK™ in any almost conceivable size shape and quantity - please contact us for further information.

Alpha-particle etch tracks in TASTRAK

See video of growth of alpha-particle etch track