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Large-Area,
High-Sensitivity, High-Resolution X-Ray Imager--Adelphi
Technology, Inc., 2181 Park Boulevard, Palo Alto, CA
94306-1543; 650-328-7337
Dr.
Charles K. Gary, Principal Investigator, cgary@adelphitech.com
Dr.
Melvin A. Piestrup, Business Official, melpie@adelphitech.com
DOE
Grant No. DE-FG03-01ER83171
Amount:
$100,000
Ionization
chambers and photomultiplier tubes are commonly used in nuclear physics and
other scientific research due to their sensitivity and energy resolution.
However, these detectors provide very poor imaging capabilities.
Alternatively, phosphor screens, photoemissive materials, and amorphous
detectors are commonly used for imaging, but they provide poor sensitivity and
energy resolution. This project
will develop a new hybrid detector using porous dielectric conversion and
amplification media combined with microwell substrates.
The detector will provide the sensitivity and energy resolution of an
ionization chamber with spatial resolutions of 10 lp/mm or better for imaging.
Detectors, with areas greater than a square meter, capable of detecting 1
keV to 20 keV X-rays as well as alpha particles, electrons and neutrons are
possible. Phase I will deposit
porous dielectric material, such as CsI, on a microwell substrate to create a
porous microwell detector. The
detector will be tested and characterized to confirm its sensitivity and imaging
capabilities and to help optimize its performance.
Commercial Applications And Other Benefits as described by awardee: The proposed porous microwell detector should provide superior capabilities for X-ray imaging and scientific applications, including nuclear physics experiments, X-ray observations in space, medical imaging, and nondestructive testing. The total market for the resulting X-ray imager could exceed $100 million per year.