Photoconductive detectors with fast temporal response for laser produced plasma experiments

Area of Science:

• High-energy physics
• Materials science
• X-ray detection technology

Background:

• Laser plasma experiments involve ultrafast processes ( < 100 ps).
• Accurate measurement necessitates detectors with rapid temporal resolution.
• Photoconductive detectors (PCDs) are candidates for such measurements.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate the temporal response and linearity of various x-ray sensitive PCDs.
• To compare the performance of diamond and GaAs-based PCDs.
• To provide characterization data for selecting appropriate detectors for ultrafast x-ray measurements.

Main Methods:

• Investigated PCDs with active elements of natural and synthetic diamond, and GaAs.
• Measured temporal responses using ultrafast x-ray sources.
• Assessed detector linearity under x-ray irradiation.
• Utilized synchrotron radiation for detailed characterization.

Main Results:

• GaAs PCDs demonstrated typical time responses of approximately 60 ps.
• Temporal responses and linearity were quantified for different detector materials.
• Characterization data using synchrotron radiation were obtained.

Conclusions:

• GaAs PCDs exhibit fast temporal resolution suitable for laser plasma experiments.
• The study provides essential performance data for x-ray PCDs.
• Findings aid in the selection of detectors for ultrafast scientific applications.