Micron-scale Direct-detection X-ray Detectors

Experiments taking full advantage of recent upgrades to Department of Energy x‐ray light sources are limited by the performance of available high energy x‐ray detectors. High energy x‐ray detectors using new materials with sensitivities and resolution that exceed currently available technologies are being developed. These new detectors use solution‐processed materials and can be made directly on existing readout electronics, making upgrades to existing equipment easy and low cost. In Phase I, the feasibility of these new solution‐processed materials in high‐energy x‐ray detection was demonstrated. Unoptimized detectors had sensitivities exceeding currently available technologies and were demonstrated in a high‐resolution imaging array. In Phase II, detector films will be optimized by increasing the absorber layer thickness to absorb greater than 95% of incident high energy x‐rays. Device stability will be characterized and improved if needed and imaging resolution limitations will be identified. A prototype imaging panel will be developed and demonstrated at a Department of Energy x‐ray light source. Improved high energy x‐ray detectors will have broad impacts in areas beyond material research, including industrial non‐destructive testing and quality control, border security, and medical imaging. High‐energy x‐rays can penetrate denser and thicker materials than soft x‐rays, and increased resolution will provide details previously missed. Increased sensitivity is especially important in medical imaging, where x‐ray dose requirements will be reduced.