Segmented Rectifying and Blocking Contacts on Germanium Planar Detectors

The semiconductor electrodes on segmented germanium planar detectors used in nuclear physics research require improvement, so that significantly more of the available high-purity germanium can be utilized for the detection function. This project will develop new semiconductor electrode technology for use in the fabrication of germanium detectors. Phase I will involve the fabrication and testing of candidate systems. In Phase II, the most promising of these electrode contacts will be used to make much larger detectors for nuclear physics. Commercial Applications and other Benefits as described by the awardee These systems should have immediate applications at DOE user facilities, including research in nuclear physics, astrophysics, and rare-particle detection. Moreover, the technology should extend the use of germanium detectors to other fields, such as nuclear medicine.