Engineering topics
Publications and source records attributed to Semmler, R. A..
The characteristics of a curved position sensitive X-ray detector are discussed. Emphasis is placed on the analysis of operation in a focusing diffraction geometry. Problems encountered in constructing the sensor are described. Construction drawings of the sensor components are provided.
A position sensitive proportional counter for use in an X-ray diffractometer is developed to permit drastic reductions in the power and weight requirements of the X-ray source and the elimination of the power, weight, and complexity of a moving slit. The final detector constructed and tested has a window spanning 138 and a free standing anode curved along an arc of 7.1 cm radius. Demonstration spectra of a quartz sample in a Debye-Sherrer geometry indicate a spatial resolution of 0.4 - 0.5 mm (0.3 - 0.4 theta). The lunar diffractometer consumed 25 watts in the X-ray generator and weighed about 20 pounds.
Detection and quantitative determination of hydrogen on planetary and lunar surfaces by neutron capture gamma rays