Electronics for Radiation Detection

Book excerpt: There is a growing need to understand and combat potential radiation damage problems in semiconductor devices and circuits. Assessing the billion-dollar market for detection equipment in the context of medical imaging using ionizing radiation, Electronics for Radiation Detection presents valuable information that will help integrated circuit (IC) designers and other electronics professionals take full advantage of the tremendous developments and opportunities associated with this burgeoning field. Assembling contributions from industrial and academic experts, this book— Addresses the state of the art in the design of semiconductor detectors, integrated circuits, and other electronics used in radiation detection Analyzes the main effects of radiation in semiconductor devices and circuits, paying special attention to degradation observed in MOS devices and circuits when they are irradiated Explains how circuits are built to deal with radiation, focusing on practical information about how they are being used, rather than mathematical details Radiation detection is critical in space applications, nuclear physics, semiconductor processing, and medical imaging, as well as security, drug development, and modern silicon processing techniques. The authors discuss new opportunities in these fields and address emerging detector technologies, circuit design techniques, new materials, and innovative system approaches. Aimed at postgraduate researchers and practicing engineers, this book is a must for those serious about improving their understanding of electronics used in radiation detection. The information presented here can help you make optimal use of electronic detection equipment and stimulate further interest in its development, use, and benefits.