Advanced photodetector for hybrid PET-MRI systems

Area of Science:

• Photonics and Semiconductor Devices
• Medical Imaging Technology
• Materials Science

Background:

• Silicon photomultipliers (SiPMs) are crucial for scientific, medical, and industrial applications.
• Advances in photodiode technology are essential for high-precision applications like medical imaging.
• Next-generation hybrid positron emission tomography (PET) and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) scanners require enhanced photodetector capabilities.

Purpose of the Study:

• To design and develop a highly sensitive photodiode for next-generation PET-MRI scanners.
• To improve image resolution and photon detection capabilities in medical imaging devices.
• To meet stringent medical diagnostics standards through advanced photodetector production.

Main Methods:

• Development of deep-immersion micropixel avalanche photodiodes (MAPDs) with 12-micron pixel size and 1000 pixels/mm² density.
• Optimization of a 4x4 mm² active area for a balance of sensitivity and size in medical imaging.
• Utilizing 300 mm silicon wafers and advanced growth techniques, with production at MIMOS.

Main Results:

• The MAPD-3NM (12-micron pixels) showed a 1.8x greater amplification factor than MAPD-3NK (10-micron pixels).
• MAPD-3NM exhibited a 100% increase in overvoltage range (to 4 V) and a 3.5x lower dark current.
• MAPD-3NM had a capacitance of 200 pF, contributing to superior performance and efficiency.

Conclusions:

• The developed MAPD-3NM photodiode offers enhanced efficiency and sensitivity for scientific and medical applications.
• This advancement in photodetector technology is critical for improving PET-MRI scanner accuracy and capabilities.
• The project aims to enhance patient outcomes through superior medical imaging performance.