PRESS RELEASE
(12 September 2002)
AST Launches Spectralize - A New Coating to Enhance Ultraviolet Detection and Imaging

Applied Scintillation Technologies (AST) launches Spectralize 1 – a new coating for the CCD imaging market. Spectralize 1 has been developed by AST to extend and improve the sensitivity of photodiode linear arrays, CMOS devices and CCDs into the UV and far UV wavelengths.

Application Areas
The Spectralize 1 high performance coating can be used in a wide variety of scientific instrumentation, including UV Spectrophotometers, photometers, digital cameras for microscopes and general imaging systems, to improve sensitivity and detection at far UV wavelengths. Typical applications include:

      •  Materials research - metallurgical and spark analysis, QA/QC
      •  Astronomy - space observation
      •  Optical emission spectroscopy
      •  Environmental issues eg – pollution monitoring, marine biology

Spectralize 1 enables faster and greater detection at far UV wavelengths providing a cost effective solution for scientific instrumentation manufacturers and their customers. Key features include:

      •  Improved signal to noise output
      •  High quality images down to 200nm
      •  Optional non reflecting UV windows can be fitted

The Spectralize 1 coating increases the spectral range of front illuminated arrays and helps to significantly improve the quantum efficiency of the array in this wavelength range. Spectralize 1 provides a superior alternative to anti-reflection coatings which can also be used to extend the UV sensitivity on back-illuminated CCDs.

To help customers see the performance benefits of Spectralize 1, AST are providing free of charge samples for evaluation purposes. To request a sample, please call AST on + 44 (0) 1279 641234 or email sales@appscintech.com.

Comprehensive product information and technical specifications can be found on the AST web site: http://www.appscintech.com/products.

AST is continually developing technologies to be able to meet the ongoing advances in detection and imaging research. New coatings are under development and we would be pleased to discuss any application specific requirements you may have. Alternatively, you can email your requirements to sales@appscintech.com.

In addition, AST will be launching a further range of coatings in the Autumn – see our website for updated information.

About Applied Scintillation Technologies
Applied Scintillation Technologies, part of the Levy Hill Group Plc, is a leading provider of advanced imaging and detection solutions using the latest in phosphor and scintillation technology. Our extensive knowledge and expertise enables us to supply a diverse range of application-focused products for both standard and customised solutions in a number of markets including medical and dental imaging, security screening, biosciences, non-destructive testing and scientific instrumentation markets.
AST has received both SPUR and SMART awards for research projects to help continual development for innovative, high quality solutions and products.

For more information:
Stuart Quinn
Applied Scintillation Technologies
Tel: 01279 641234
Email: s_quinn@appscintech.com
Web: www.appscintech.com