Flexible Material for X-ray Detectors Presented in Russia- A new material capable of efficiently converting X-rays into visible light has been developed in Russia. Here’s what makes this homegrown innovation special and where it could be applied — from scientific research to modern medicine.
Materials scientists at Moscow State University (MSU) have created an innovative scintillator based on a coordination polymer. This new material effectively converts X-rays into visible light, paving the way for the development of flexible, durable, and highly sensitive scintillation screens. These are essential for medical diagnostics, non-destructive testing, and advanced scientific research, according to the university’s official website.
The material boasts remarkable photoluminescence (with an efficiency of up to 98.5%), as well as water resistance, thermal stability up to 300 °C, and high radiation tolerance. Common reagents — copper(I) iodide and hexamethylenetetramine (urotropine) — were used to synthesize the material. This led to the formation of Cu₆I₆(HMTA)₂ nanoparticles, which were then embedded into a flexible ethylene-vinyl acetate matrix. The resulting composite screens demonstrated record levels of X-ray luminescence and high resolution, outperforming traditional industrial counterparts.
“Our material demonstrates a unique combination of properties — high luminosity, mechanical flexibility, and resistance to moisture and harsh radiation — making it a universal solution for X-ray imaging,” said Sergey Fateev, a research fellow at the Laboratory of New Materials for Solar Energy at MSU’s Faculty of Materials Science.
Screens created on the basis of the new material provide clear and detailed images of small objects, while possessing both strength and lightness of construction. Source: Faculty of Scientific and Mathematical Mechanics, Moscow State University
Screens developed from the new composite deliver high-quality imaging of small objects and fine details, all while maintaining a lightweight and durable structure. Experts say these scintillators show strong potential for use in flexible panels for X-ray imaging systems.
“It was important for us to develop not just an efficient scintillator, but a material that could be produced at scale and integrated into flexible devices without sacrificing performance,” added Alexey Tarasov, head of the Laboratory of New Materials for Solar Energy at MSU.
Meanwhile, foreign researchers have created ink for printing electronics with adjustable hardness — a development that could revolutionize the next generation of personal electronics, medical devices, and robotics. We’ve also covered the science behind this groundbreaking ink.