Microgap x-ray detector

Patent · Tue May 03 04:00:00 EDT 1994

OSTI ID:7184218

Wuest, C R; Bionta, R M; Ables, E

An x-ray detector is disclosed which provides for the conversion of x-ray photons into photoelectrons and subsequent amplification of these photoelectrons through the generation of electron avalanches in a thin gas-filled region subject to a high electric potential. The detector comprises a cathode (photocathode) and an anode separated by the thin, gas-filled region. The cathode may comprise a substrate, such a beryllium, coated with a layer of high atomic number material, such as gold, while the anode can be a single conducting plane of material, such as gold, or a plane of resistive material, such as chromium/silicon monoxide, or multiple areas of conductive or resistive material, mounted on a substrate composed of glass, plastic or ceramic. The charge collected from each electron avalanche by the anode is passed through processing electronics to a point of use, such as an oscilloscope. 3 figures.

• DOE Contract Number: W-7405-ENG-48
• Assignee: Dept. of Energy, Washington, DC (United States)
• Patent Number(s): A; US 5308987
• Application Number: PPN: US 8-011637
• OSTI ID: 7184218
• Country of Publication: United States
• Language: English

Related Subjects

440101* -- Radiation Instrumentation-- General Detectors or Monitors & Radiometric Instruments
46 INSTRUMENTATION RELATED TO NUCLEAR SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY
CATHODES
CHARGE COLLECTION
DESIGN
DETECTION
ELECTRIC DISCHARGES
ELECTRODES
MEASURING INSTRUMENTS
PHOTOCATHODES
RADIATION DETECTION
RADIATION DETECTORS
X-RAY DETECTION