High Performance X-Ray Detectors

X-ray detector arrays with high energy resolution, high sensitivity and high count-rate performance are required for synchrotron beamline studies. However, in many studies conducted with synchrotron beamlines, the characteristics of available X-ray detectors limit the overall system performance. This project will investigate a novel low-capacitance design for high purity silicon detector arrays that offers high energy resolution, high efficiency, and high count-rate operation, as well as relatively easy fabrication. Phase I demonstrated the feasibility of X-ray detection by producing a high-resolution, high-purity silicon detector array with low capacitance. Phase II will advance the technology by optimizing the detector design, constructing a larger format array, performing a detailed evaluation of the detector, and investigating the performance of a fully functional detector array system at a synchrotron beamline.Commercial Applications and Other Benefits as described by the awardee: The proposed detectors should be very useful in X-ray detection studies conducted at synchrotron beamlines. Additional applications include nuclear and particle physics, astronomy, health physics, nuclear non-proliferation, and non-destructive studies.