SHORT WAVELENGTH FLUORESCENT LIGHT SOURCE

摘要

Devices providing 270-320 mu and preferably 280 mu fluorescent light are described in which a primary source of shorter wavelength light is incident upon an elongated thallium-activated alkali halide fluorescent crystal having rounded ends serving as lenses to collimate fluorescent light emanating from said ends. Methods and means are also described for prolonging the useful life of the fluorescent crystal, including optical means for filtering out the deleterious wavelengths of the light from the primary source, means for dissipating heat from the crystal to reduce its degrading effect, and a method and means for cleaning and maintaining the crystals free of surface contamination adversely affecting its fluorescent properties.