Diamond Detectors

Solid state detectors are used in high energy accelerators to identify the collision products that result from the interaction of fundamental particles. Man-made diamonds, prepared by chemical vapor deposition, exhibit a number of extreme properties that make it an excellent candidate material for such detectors, which could provide far superior performance at a cost effective price. This project will develop a novel process for manufacturing man-made diamond, specifically for detector applications. Using this technology, a prototype, high-performance diamond detector will be built, and its performance will be evaluated relative to existing detectors. In Phase I, detectors will be manufactured and their efficiency will be evaluated using a combinatorial approach. Performance limits will be identified, and their specific root causes (e.g., impurity levels, grain size, metalization scheme) will be.systematically examined and rectified. Commercial Applications And Other Benefits as described by the Applicant: The diamond detectors should find application in high energy physics accelerators for particle tracking and beam monitoring. Because diamond can provide electronc functionality at extremely high temperature, it also should find use in high temperature electronics, such as in jet engines power management and conversion applications. Finally, diamond detectors should have applicability to the proton beam treatment of cancer, providing more precise dosimetry and beam positioning