A high resolution semiconductor detector for applications in space
Nuclear radiation detectors with volumes of approximately 1 cu cm was fabricated from single crystals of germanium-silicon alloy containing as much as 20 weight percent germanium. The properties of these detectors were investigated and will be discussed. Tests reveal that the gamma ray photoelectric peak efficiency of an alloy detector with only 12 weight percent germanium is approximately 4 times that of a silicon detector of equal volume. The room temperature roomure appears to be a good possibility. Storage for long periods at room temperature does not seem to adversely affect these devices. The results of preliminary radiation damage experiments suggest that the alloy detectors possess a radiation damage resistance far greater than that of silicon.