Photoconducting x-ray detectors for Z-pinch experiments
We have used GaAs and GaAs:Cr photoconducting detectors (PCDs) to measure the absolute x-ray output from 1 to 10 keV from Z-pinch plasma radiation sources. We calibrated the detectors over the spectral range of 900--3000 eV and found the spectral response to be constant to within the accuracy of the measurements. The flat spectral response, increased sensitivity (compared with bolometers), and good time response of the PCDs, coupled with their reliability and long lifetimes, have allowed us to acquire absolute x-ray data of significantly higher quality than possible with resistive bolometers or x-ray diodes (XRDs). An added attraction of PCDs is their smooth saturation at high incident x-ray fluxes. Unlike other types of electrical x-ray detectors, this feature allows a PCD to operate over a wide range of incident x-ray powers (10--10/sup 4/ W/cm/sup 2/ ). We present results from gas puff Z-pinch experiments on Proto-II and Supermite comparing PCD, XRD, and resistive bolometer performance.
- Research Organization:
- Sandia National Laboratories, Albuquerque, New Mexico 87185
- OSTI ID:
- 6906283
- Journal Information:
- Rev. Sci. Instrum.; (United States), Journal Name: Rev. Sci. Instrum.; (United States) Vol. 59:8; ISSN RSINA
- Country of Publication:
- United States
- Language:
- English
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Related Subjects
700102* -- Fusion Energy-- Plasma Research-- Diagnostics
BOLOMETERS
DETECTION
ELECTROMAGNETIC RADIATION
FUNCTIONS
IONIZING RADIATIONS
LINEAR PINCH DEVICES
LINEAR Z PINCH DEVICES
MEASURING INSTRUMENTS
NATIONAL ORGANIZATIONS
OPEN PLASMA DEVICES
PERFORMANCE
PINCH DEVICES
PLASMA DIAGNOSTICS
RADIATION DETECTION
RADIATION DETECTORS
RADIATIONS
RESPONSE FUNCTIONS
SANDIA LABORATORIES
THERMONUCLEAR DEVICES
US AEC
US DOE
US ERDA
US ORGANIZATIONS
X RADIATION
X-RAY DETECTION