Gaseous Electron Multipliers (GEMs)

Threat detection and emergency responses in nuclear environments require reliable, portable radiation sensors. Radiation damages solid state detector performance too severely for ubiquitous implementation, and robust Geiger-Muller tube (GMT) based gaseous detectors have reached their miniaturization limit.ĀĀ In this Phase II SBIR, EngeniusMicro as Prime, University of New Mexico as a Modeling and Testing Partner, Jenoptik Inc as a Production Partner, and Teledyne FLIR as an Integrator Partner propose a low-cost, micromachined gaseous detector to replace Geiger-Muller tubes as a nuclear survivable, easily integrable, sensitive radiation sensor designed for wearable technology. The sensor incorporates stackable layers of gaseous electron multiplier (GEM) geometry that operate efficiently at particle fluxes up to 1MHz/mm2 and have a rate capability above of 105 counts /mm2Ęsec. The detector and its associated acquisition electronics can then be packaged within a custom ceramic chip carrier with integrated radiation shielding. The proposed technology is straightforward for our experienced team to prototype based on on-going Phase II SBIR work, test in relevant conditions, and prove for various cross-functional applications.ĀĀ The team will translate an optimized GEM geometry into a CMOS-compatible process such that the sensorÆs effective gain achieves GMT performance levels for 10 Gy/hr gamma dose rates. After proving that the novel sensor can accurately measure radiation, appropriate high and low Z material combinations will be selected for dedicated measurement of radiation doses and energy ranges (gamma rays, x-rays, and neutrons). The device capability will be demonstrated through simulation, modeling, and irradiation facilities.Ā