Development of a new generation of micro-structured semi-conductor detectors for X-rays medical imaging
In X-ray medical imaging, semi-conductors tend to replace scintillator crystals (most of the commercial devices), thank to their higher spatial resolution and energy resolution. Counting mode is another tendency, because it allows reducing the radiation dose delivered to the patient. This work aims at developing a new generation of semi-conductor detectors, different from CdTe / CdZnTe for environmental concerns, and associated with a new detection structure (3D geometry). Semi-insulating GaAs from specific growth and supplier, with adapted metallic electrodes, shows the ability to count photons. Then, a proof of concept of the 3D geometry is provided, through the characterization of electrodes machining in bulk material, metal deposition and connection to a read-out electronic circuit. Finally, the achievement of these objectives is reflected in the preliminary characterization of 3D detector based on semi-insulating GaAs.