Single-photon counting in luminescent analysis with micro- and millisecond decay times

Main methods of photon counting, as well as particularities in detecting micro- and millisecond decay times using a single-photon gated avalanche photodiode, are considered. The influence of the background radiation level on linearity of counting has been determined and the effect of photon superposition during asynchronous counting has been demonstrated. In addition, recommendations for the detection of long-living or delayed fluorescence and phosphorescence are presented.