CdS heterojunction contacts to CZT X-ray detectors

CdZnTe (CZT) semiconductor crystals are used as X-ray detectors in state-of-the-art medical CT scanners. These devices are sensitive to individual X-ray photons and enable tissue selective X-ray imaging with reduced radiation dose to the patient. The CZT detectors function by converting absorbed X-rays into electrical signals that are subsequently analyzed by a computer to make an image. Improvements in the X-ray to electrical signal conversion process will further improve CT images. The goal of this project is to improve the quality of the electrical outputs from CZT detectors in response to absorbed X-rays. This will be accomplished by introducing an electron and hole selective contact layer composed of CdS between the CZT semiconductor and the metal contact, that transfers the X-ray signal to the computer.

Faculty Supervisor:

Tom Tiedje

Student:

Partner:

Redlen Technologies

Discipline:

Physics

Sector:

Manufacturing

University:

University of Victoria

Program: