Improved Manufacturing Processes for Circular Array Detectors

The goal of phase 1 was to create a channel electron multiplier that could be used in an array for configuration in the synchrotron beam application. In order to have little variance in first strike statistics contamination needed to be eliminated from the surface. This was accomplished with phase 1 research. During Phase 2 the primary objective is to manufacture a circular array of multipliers that operate with consistent electrical characteristics from unit to unit. Three areas in the process will be focused on in order to obtain this consistency. One important process to be investigated is the hydrogen reduction process, which is needed to maximize the amount of semi-conducting lead on the glass surface. Another process that needs to be addressed is the wet chemistry performed both before and after the hydrogen reduction process so that the proper formation of silica occurs on the surface. The third process that will be examined is vacuum bake, which is important in removing loosely bonded gases on the surface. Finally, 32 multipliers will be mounted on a flange suitable for the NIST synchrotron beam application. This flange will be delivered to NIST along with appropriate power supplies and 32 individual preamps.