Fast, Low Noise Photodetectors for Nuclear Physics

Current and next generation experiments in nuclear and particle physics require detectors with high signal-to-noise ratio, fast response, accurate energy information, and high spatial resolution. This project will investigate a promising compact detector design that can be operated with very high gain. This detector should provide high signal-to-noise ratio and excellent timing, position, and energy resolution, and should be low cost. Phase I demonstrated the feasibility of producing a solid-state, high gain photodetector, which achieved high resolution detection of scintillation light. In Phase II, the new photodectors will be optimized and scaled-up, their basic properties will be extensively characterized, and they will be evaluated for nuclear physics experiments. Commercial Applications and other Benefits as described by the awardee: The proposed detectors should be very useful in fundamental studies conducted for nuclear physics, high energy physics, and astronomy. In addition, these detectors would be useful in commercial applications such as medical imaging, non-destructive studies, and well-logging