New design promises faster and better X-Ray detection

A TDE activity (4000123857) has developed a novel type of X-ray detector that combines two of the most important detector parameters: large active area and good energy resolution.

Research has a great need for large-area X-ray detectors that are capable of ever-faster X-Ray fluorescence analysis, especially where the study is measuring a constant, rapid material flow, such as on conveyor belts and pipelines. For space in particular, a detector with a large detection area reduces data collection times, which means faster and more efficient data collection for astronomy and astrophysics studies of faint X-ray sources from deep space.

The new gas-filled-type detector, built by Fenno-Aurum Oy Ltd (FI), has an internal structure similar to a Silicon Drift Detector – the industry standard despite of its small active area of 100 mm2. With this new design, the activity was able to achieve the best ever energy resolution measured with any gas-filled detector: 9.8% at 5.9keV. The design also optimised the life of the detector – placing it in a very low electric-field – meaning the ageing effects of the harsh environment were limited and in future very long-lived detectors could be built. It also showed no microphonic effects, which meant it could operate in noisy and heavily shaking environments.

With further development the high-collection rate, radiation tolerance and invulnerability to noise could mean this detector will find numerous applications, even beyond ESA missions.