New N+ Contact for Germanium Strip Detectors

72157S03-I Germanium strip detectors are very promising for X-ray and ?-ray imaging with high resolution. However, existing n+ lithium electrodes prevent the full potential of high purity germanium (HPGe) strip detectors from being exploited in nuclear physics experiments as well as in many other applications. This project will investigate a new approach, using new semiconductor processing techniques, for the fabrication of n+ electrodes on HPGe crystals. The approach would be suitable for the fabrication of conventional HPGe designs as well as strip detectors. Phase I will demonstrate the feasibility of producing the HPGe strip detector using the new n+ contacts. Also, the high resolution detection of X-rays with the new detector will be demonstrated. Commercial Applications and Other Benefits as described by awardee: The proposed detectors would be very useful in nuclear and particle physics research. Additional applications include X-ray astronomy, synchrotron studies, medical imaging, nuclear non-proliferation, and non-destructive studies.