Detection of x rays by a surface acoustic delay line in contact with a diamond crystal

In this study, we present proof of concept for an x-ray detector. The hybrid device consists of a synthetic single crystal diamond in mechanical contact with a piezoelectric lithium niobate surface acoustic wave (SAW) delay line. Upon x-ray irradiation, the diamond crystal experiences a change in conductivity, which, in turn, very sensitively influences the SAW transmission on the delay line. This change in SAW attenuation is directly used to monitor the x-ray beam intensity. The SAW attenuation shows a monotonic variation with dose rate D in the studied range between 100 and 1800 mu Gy/s. While the response time leaves room for further improvement, the SAW detection principle offers the unique possibility for wireless remote powering and sensing.

Automated summary

The study presents a proof of concept for an x-ray detector using a hybrid device consisting of a synthetic single crystal diamond and a piezoelectric lithium niobate surface acoustic wave (SAW) delay line. The change in SAW attenuation is utilized to monitor x-ray beam intensity, showing a monotonic variation with dose rate in the studied range. The SAW detection principle provides the unique possibility for wireless remote powering and sensing, although further improvement is needed for response time.