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At least 613 records · Page 34

In situ X-ray area detector flat-field correction at an operating photon energy without flat illumination

Flat-field calibration of X-ray area detectors is a challenge due to the inability to generate an X-ray flat-field at the selected photon energy the beamline operates at, which has a strong influence on the measurement behavior of the detector. A method is presented in which a simulated flat-field correction is calculated without flat-field measurements. Instead, a series of quick scattering measurements from an amorphous scatterer is used to calculate a flat-field response. The ability to rapidly obtain a flat-field response allows for recalibration of an X-ray detector as needed without significant expenditure of either time or effort. Area detectors on the beamlines used, such as the Pilatus 2M CdTe, PE XRD1621 and Varex XRD 4343CT, were found to have detector responses that drift slightly over timescales of several weeks or after exposure to high photon flux, suggesting the need to more frequently recalibrate with a new flat-field correction map.

47 OTHER INSTRUMENTATION↗

Prototype Ge:Ga detectors for the NASA-Ames cooled grating spectrometer

The detectors were fabricated from a Ge:Ga wafer from Eagle-Pitcher with a room temperature resistivity of approx. 12ohms cm. The wafer is approximately 2 inches in diameter and 0.061 inches thick. The contact material was ion implanted with Boron using 10 to the 14th power ions/sq cm at 25 Kev and 2 x10 to the 14th power ions/sq cm at 50 Kev. The crystal was then sputter-cleaned and metallized first with sputtered Ti and then sputter Au. In addition to the usual infrared measurements of responsivity and noise, measurements were made of the detectors' response to ionizing radiation.

Houck, J. R.↗

Measurement of proton quenching in a plastic scintillator detector

The non-linear energy response of the plastic scintillator EJ-260 is measured with the MicroCHANDLER detector, using neutron beams of energy 5 to 27 MeV at the Triangle Universities Nuclear Laboratory. The first and second order Birks' constants are extracted from the data, and found to be $k_B = (8.70 \pm 0.93)\times 10^{-3}\ {\rm g/cm^2/MeV}$ and $k_C = (1.42 \pm 1.00) \times 10^{-5}\ {\rm (g/cm^2/MeV)^2}$. This result covers a unique energy range that is of direct relevance for fast neutron backgrounds in reactor inverse beta decay detectors. Furthermore, these measurements will improve the energy non-linearity modeling of plastic scintillator detectors. In particular, the updated energy response model will lead to an improvement of fast neutron modeling for detectors based on the CHANDLER reactor neutrino detector technology.

72 PHYSICS OF ELEMENTARY PARTICLES AND FIELDS↗

Further characterization of IRAS doped silicon detectors

Measurements made on several doped-silicon detectors are reported. Topics discussed include: Si:Sb detector, the effects of detector bias on dielectric relaxation; characterization of spontaneous noise and gamma-induced spikes and their circumvention; and the time response of two detectors to step changes in the background photon flux density. Several potential system programs are indicated.

Source record↗

Laser Energy Monitor for Double-Pulsed 2-Micrometer IPDA Lidar Application

Integrated path differential absorption (IPDA) lidar is a remote sensing technique for monitoring different atmospheric species. The technique relies on wavelength differentiation between strong and weak absorbing features normalized to the transmitted energy. 2-micron double-pulsed IPDA lidar is best suited for atmospheric carbon dioxide measurements. In such case, the transmitter produces two successive laser pulses separated by short interval (200 microseconds), with low repetition rate (10Hz). Conventional laser energy monitors, based on thermal detectors, are suitable for low repetition rate single pulse lasers. Due to the short pulse interval in double-pulsed lasers, thermal energy monitors underestimate the total transmitted energy. This leads to measurement biases and errors in double-pulsed IPDA technique. The design and calibration of a 2-micron double-pulse laser energy monitor is presented. The design is based on a high-speed, extended range InGaAs pin quantum detectors suitable for separating the two pulse events. Pulse integration is applied for converting the detected pulse power into energy. Results are compared to a photo-electro-magnetic (PEM) detector for impulse response verification. Calibration included comparing the three detection technologies in single-pulsed mode, then comparing the pin and PEM detectors in double-pulsed mode. Energy monitor linearity will be addressed.

Refaat, Tamer F.↗

DNN-based Signal Processing for Liquid Argon Time Projection Chambers

We investigate a deep learning-based signal processing for liquid argon time projection chambers (LArTPCs), a leading detector technology in neutrino physics. Identifying regions of interest (ROIs) in LArTPCs is challenging due to signal cancellation from bipolar responses and various detector effects observed in real data. We approach ROI identification as an image segmentation task, and employ a U-ResNet architecture. The network is trained on samples that incorporate detector geometry information and include a range of detector variations. Our approach significantly outperforms traditional methods while maintaining robustness across diverse detector conditions. This method has been adopted for signal processing in the Short-Baseline Neutrino program and provides a valuable foundation for future experiments such as the Deep Underground Neutrino Experiment.

Bhat, Avinay [Chicago U.]↗

Deconvolution of SNPP VIIRS Solar Diffuser Bidirectional Reflectance Distribution Function On-orbit Change Factor

The Earth-observing Visible Infrared Imaging Radiometer Suite (VIIRS) on the Suomi National Polar-orbiting Partnership satellite regularly calibrates its reflective solar bands (RSBs), primarily through observing an onboard sunlit solar diffuser (SD). The on-orbit change of the value of the SD bidirectional reflectance distribution function (BRDF) is quantified by a numerical factor, called the H-factor, and is determined by the onboard SD stability monitor (SDSM). Because the spectral response function of an SDSM detector spreads in wavelength, the directly measured H-factor is the true H-factor convolved with the spectral response function. To find the true H-factor, we use the traditional direct method and an innovative iterative approach to separately deconvolve the measured H-factor. Our iterative approach relies on two properties of the SDSM detector spectral response function: the central peak width is narrow enough so that the H-factor does not change much over the peak width, and the dominance of the spectral response function’s integral with respect to the wavelength over the width. The iterative approach is more accurate, of a smaller noise impact, much more flexible in terms of interpolation and extrapolation of function values, and faster. We have used deconvolved H-factors to calibrate the NASA SNPP VIIRS RSB Collections 1 and 2 Level-1B products.

SNPP VIIRS↗

Vacuum UV performance of silicon detectors

The sensitivity, time-varying response, and spatial sensitivity of four silicon detectors of vacuum UV were measured by passing a typical flux of 3 x 10 photons/s at the Lyman alpha line of 1215.7 A through an exit aperture of 0.55 mm x 0.8 mm. The detectors tested were: (1) a Fairchild FPM 200 silicon planar passivated photodiode with the window removed so that radiation could directly impinge on the center of the 1.0 mm square silicon chip, (2) a Fairchild FPM 100 silicon NPN planar passivated phototransistor, (3) the Hewlett-Packard 5082-4204 silicon planar PIN photodiode, and (4) the United Detector Technology PIN Spot/2 special sensitive silicon Schottky surface photodiode with the window removed.

Ohlhaber, R. L.↗

Monte Carlo simulation methodology for characterizing the energy response function and resolving power of a digital Flat Panel Detector (FPD) assembly

The use of high-resolution, digital flat panel detectors (FPDs) makes quantitative assessments of radiographic and 3D tomographic representations feasible. However, the energy response function and spatial resolving power of the detector must be known. Here, we present a methodology for characterizing an FPD assembly using Monte Carlo simulations. The detector assembly modeled here was fielded in the 3-Ring Flash X-ray Imaging System designed and built at Lawrence Livermore National Laboratory (LLNL), which employs fifteen Carestream ® HPX-DR3543 FPDs enclosed in protective housings. Detailed Monte Carlo (MCNP6) simulations of an as-fielded detector assembly were performed to estimate its energy response function in terms of analog-to-digital unit (ADU) “counts” per pixel per incident x-ray as a function of energy up to ∼ 500 keV and its theoretical (idealized) resolving power. The practical resolving power of the FPD assembly in a realistic scenario was then estimated by simulating radiographic images of a variant of the United Kingdom (U.K.) “Kaleidoscope” resolution target.

Physics↗

Design and performance of very long-wavelength GaAs/Al(x)Ga(1-x)As quantum-well infrared photodetectors

We present an extensive and detailed study of very long wavelength quantum well infrared photodetectors covering the spectral region between 14 and 20 micrometers. Measurements were made on seven different molecular beam epitaxy grown samples having different well widths and barrier heights. In this study we combine experimental results with theoretical analysis and focus on the relationship between the quantum well structure and detector performance, i.e., responsivity, dark current, dynamic resistance, noise current, optical-gain, and detectivity. These results provide the basis for further optimization, and the detector parameters needed for the design of the readout circuit for focal plane arrays.

Sarusi, G.↗

Dynamic range considerations for EUV MAMA detectors

The multianode microchannel array (MAMA) has been chosen as the detector for two instruments on the ESA/NASA Solar Heliospheric Observatory. The response of the MAMA to the two extreme types of solar spectra, disk and corona, have been modeled with a view toward evaluating dynamic range effects present. The method of MAMA operation is discussed, with emphasis given to modeling the effect of electron cloud charge spreading to several detector anodes and amplifiers (n-fold events). Representative synthetic EUV spectra have been created. The detector response to these spectra is modeled by dissecting the input photon radiation field across the detector array into contributions to the various amplifier channels. The results of this dissection are shown for spectral regions across the entire wavelength region of interest. These results are used to identify regions in which total array photon counting rate or individual amplifier rate may exceed the design limits. This allows the design or operational modes to be tailored to eliminate the problem areas.

Illing, Rainer M. E.↗

Ultrafast UV AlGaN Metal–Semiconductor–Metal Photodetector With a Response Time Below 25 ps

Here, aluminum-gallium-nitride photodetectors were successfully fabricated with micrometer-scale metal–semiconductor–metal structures and tested with ultrafast, UV laser pulses. The measurements were performed with single-shot oscilloscopes. Pulse-broadening effects caused by the measurement system were systematically evaluated and reduced to resolve the intrinsic response time of the detector. The best-performing devices showed a response time of below 25 ps and dark currents below 20 pA. The devices showed linear response with the bias voltage and the laser energy

42 ENGINEERING↗

Optoacoustic detection using Stark modulation

Stark modulation of the absorbed laser radiation in an optoacoustic detector (or spectrophone) is reported. Measurements were made over a range of total pressure between 760 Torr and 50 Torr. Greatly enhanced molecular discrimination is suggested due to the tuning ability of the Stark-shifted absorption. The background signal obtained by operating in this mode is more than 500 times smaller than that obtained by operating the same optoacoustic detector in the conventional chopped radiation mode. The responsivity of the optoacoustic detector and the absorption coefficient of C2H4 are presented as a function of total pressure.

Kavaya, M. J.↗

Stressed photoconductive detector for far-infrared space applications

An optimized leaf-spring apparatus for applying uniaxial stress to a Ge:Ga far-IR photoconductor has been designed and tested. This design has significant advantages for space applications which require high quantum efficiency and stable operation over long periods of time. The important features include adequate spring deflection with relatively small overall size, torque-free stress, easy measurement of applied stress, and a detector configuration with high responsivity. One-dimensional arrays of stressed photoconductors can be constructed using this design. A peak responsivity of 38 A/W is achieved in a detector with a cutoff wavelength of 200 microns, which was operated at a temperature of 2.0 K and a bias voltage equal to one-half of the breakdown voltage.

Wang, J.-Q.↗

Neutron fluences and dose equivalents measured with passive detectors on LDEF

Neutron fluences were measured on LDEF in the low energy (< 1 MeV) and high energy (> 1 MeV) ranges. The low energy detectors used the 6Li(n,alpha)T reaction with Gd foil absorbers to separate thermal (< 0.2 eV) and resonance (0.2 eV-1 MeV) neutron response. High energy detectors contained sets of fission foils (181Ta, 209Bi, 232Th, 238U) with different neutron energy thresholds. The measured neutron fluences together with predicted spectral shapes were used to estimate neutron dose equivalents. The detectors were located in the A0015 and P0006 experiments at the west and Earth sides of LDEF under shielding varying from 1 to 19 g/cm2. Dose equivalent rates varied from 0.8 to 3.3 microSv/d for the low energy neutrons and from 160 to 390 microSv/d for the high energy neutrons. This compares with TLD measured absorbed dose rates in the range of 1000-3000 microGy/d near these locations and demonstrates that high energy neutrons contribute a significant fraction of the total dose equivalent in LEO. Comparisons between measurements and calculations were made for high energy neutrons based on fission fragment tracks generated by fission foils at different shielding depths. A simple 1-D slab geometry was used in the calculations. Agreement between measurements and calculations depended on both shielding depth and threshold energy of the fission foils. Differences increased as both shielding and threshold energy increased. The modeled proton/neutron spectra appeared deficient at high energies. A 3-D model of the experiments is needed to help resolve the differences.

LDEF Project↗

Characterization of the Thermal Properties of Ir/Pt Bilayer Transition Edge Sensors

In this work, we are developing a low-T c TES-based large-area and low-threshold detector targeting a variety of potential applications. The detector consists of a 50.8-mm-diameter Si wafer as the substrate and radiation absorber, a single Ir/Pt bilayer TES sensor in the center, and normal metal Au pads added to the TES to strengthen the TES–absorber thermal coupling. Tight TES–absorber thermal coupling improves detector sensitivity and response uniformity. Here, we report on the electron–phonon (e–ph) coupling strengths for the Ir/Pt bilayer and Au that are measured with our prototype detectors and TES devices. We found that a second weak thermal link besides the one due to e–ph coupling in Ir/Pt or Au was required to explain our data. With the effects of the second weak link accounted for, the extracted e–ph coupling constant Σ for Ir/Pt bilayer in the T c range between 32 and 70 mK is 1.9×10 8 WK -5 m -3 , and Σ’s for Au at 40 mK and 55 mK are 2.2×10 9 WK -5 m -3 and 3.2×10 9 WK -5 m -3 , respectively.

72 PHYSICS OF ELEMENTARY PARTICLES AND FIELDS↗

Conceptual design of a hybrid Ge:Ga detector array

For potential applications in space infrared astronomy missions such as the Space Infrared Telescope Facility and the Large Deployable Reflector, integrated arrays of long-wavelength detectors are desired. The results of a feasibility study which developed a design for applying integrated array techniques to a long-wavelength (gallium-doped germanium) material to achieve spectral coverage between 30 and 200 microns are presented. An approach which builds up a two-dimensional array by stacking linear detector modules is presented. The spectral response of the Ge:Ga detectors is extended to 200 microns by application of uniaxial stress to the stack of modules. The detectors are assembled with 1 mm spacing between the elements. Multiplexed readout of each module is accomplished with integration sampling of a metal-oxide-semiconductor (MOS) switch chip. Aspects of the overall design, including the anticipated level of particle effects on the array in the space environment, a transparent electrode design for 200 microns response, estimates of optical crosstalk, and mechanical stress design calculations are included.

Parry, C. M.↗