The design of hybrid x-ray detector using quantum size effect

Abstract

Group 2-6 compounds (e.g., CdTe, CdS, CdSe) are utilized as photoconductors at the bulk level but manufactured as phosphors at the nano-level. Each of these uses has strengths and weaknesses. Here we attempted to fuse the two uses to maximize the strengths of each by using only one compound. We invented an X-ray detector that could function at two different levels -as a photoconductor in the bulk state and as a phosphor at the nano-scale- by hybridizing two different kinds of layer from one compound. This system operates as follows. First, an X-ray is converted to light on the luminescence layer, after which the light is received on the photoconductor layer. This light has the exact wavelength range required on the photoconductor. The quantum size effect refers to the impact of changes in the electronic energy level density according to the size of the crystal in a nano-particle on its optical and electrical characteristics. On account of this effect, two different kinds of layer from one compound can be used by regulating its size. Thus, by controlling the particle size and changing the emission wavelength, the most appropriate absorption wavelength for a photoconductor in the bulk state can be emitted from the nano-phosphor. The conversion efficiency in the hybrid structure is apparently superior to that in the bulk-state single layer. In conclusion, the electrical and optical characteristics of the proposed hybrid structure are superior to those of a conventional structure. These findings confirm the feasibility of a hybrid structure based on the quantum size effect. © 2011 IOP Publishing Ltd and SISSA.