Detection of Minimum-Ionizing Particles and Nuclear Counter Effect with Pure BGO and BSO Crystals with Photodiode Read-out

Long BGO (Bismuth Germanate) and BSO (Bismuth Silicate) crystals coupled with silicon photodiodes have been used to detect minimum-ionizing particles(MIP). With a low noise amplifier customized for this purpose, the crystals can detect MIPs with an excellent signal-to-noise ratio. The NCE(Nuclear Counter Effect} is also clearly observed and measured. Effect of full and partial wrapping of a reflector around the crystal on light collection is also studied.