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Radon measurements with a PIN photodiode.
A Martín-Martín1, J L Gutiérrez-Villanueva, J M Muñoz
1Laboratorio de Investigación en Baja Radiactividad (LIBRA), Edificio I+D, Campus Miguel Delibes, Universidad de Valladolid, Valladolid 47011, Spain. alonsomm@libra.uva.es
Summary
This study explores using silicon PIN photodiodes for detecting airborne radon progeny. The device effectively collects and analyzes alpha spectra from radon daughters, optimizing detection efficiency with varying electric fields.
Area of Science:
- Nuclear Physics
- Environmental Science
- Semiconductor Devices
Background:
- Silicon photodiodes are suitable for detecting alpha particles from sources like radon daughters.
- Radon detection is crucial for environmental monitoring and health risk assessment.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate a radon-in-air detecting device utilizing a silicon PIN photodiode.
- To optimize particle collection efficiency and alpha spectra analysis for radon progeny.
Main Methods:
- An 18x18 mm silicon PIN photodiode was used in a cylindrical PVC vessel.
- High voltage was applied to focus ionized airborne radon decay products onto the photodiode surface.
- Alpha spectra from deposited neutral and ionized species (primarily 218Po and 214Po) were recorded under varying conditions.
Main Results:
- The device successfully recorded alpha spectra dominated by 218Po and 214Po progeny peaks.
- Particle collection efficiency was compared between a novel electric field configuration and a parallel plates setup.
- The study identified optimal voltage settings for different radon concentrations.
Conclusions:
- The developed device demonstrates effective radon progeny detection using silicon PIN photodiodes.
- Electric field manipulation significantly enhances particle collection efficiency.
- The findings provide guidance for selecting appropriate operating voltages based on radon concentration.