Semiconductor nuclear radiation detectors

Abstract

Semiconductor detectors of the junction type have recently revolutionized work with low energy charged particles in nuclear physics. Solid conduction counters have also been improved through the use of modern semiconducting materials but are as yet at an early stage of development. The mode of operation, methods of preparation and characteristics of these various detectors are described, together with the requirements for pulse amplification. Finally some of the many applications of semiconductor junction detectors in nuclear physics are discussed in outline. 70 references.