Electrical Characteristics of 3D Trench Electrode Germanium Detector with Nested Complementary Cathodes

Area of Science:

• Semiconductor Physics
• Radiation Detection Technology

Background:

• High-purity germanium detectors are crucial for aerospace radiation detection due to their wide range and fast response.
• Current limitations include the need for larger volumes for efficiency and incomplete charge collection caused by large electrode distances, restricting space applications.

Purpose of the Study:

• To enhance the electrical performance of high-purity germanium detectors for improved space applications.
• To introduce a novel 3D trench electrode design to overcome charge collection limitations.

Main Methods:

• Designed a high-purity germanium detector with a 3D trench-shaped cathode and nested complementary cathodes.
• Utilized Sentaurus TCAD (2019.03) semiconductor device simulation software for performance analysis.

Main Results:

• The 3D trench electrode design significantly reduces electrode spacing, improving electrical characteristics.
• Simulations confirmed superior performance, including a larger sensitive area volume, rapid charge collection, and good cell isolations.
• The novel detector structure demonstrates potential for expanded application scenarios.

Conclusions:

• The nested complementary 3D trench electrode design offers a viable strategy to enhance high-purity germanium detector performance.
• This approach addresses key limitations in charge collection efficiency and dead zones.
• The findings provide valuable insights for future structural enhancements and practical applications of germanium detectors in demanding environments.