SBIR-STTR Award

At present the need for a large area, 100 square centimeters or greater, soft x-ray fluorescence detector with high detection efficiency is required for material science and x-ray absorption spectroscopy. The current methods of detection used in x-ray absorption spectroscopy are subject to poor collection efficiency, large background and vacuum risk. It is the task of this grant to develop a multiplier device that can offer good detection efficiency and optimal collection of the fluorescence signal without risk of affecting the vacuum. To do this a multiplier device comprising of Lead Silicate glass will be manufactured with a large collection area. The device will be made utilizing a glass frit process on a machined substrate with a specially enhanced coating. At present these manufacturing methods are not known and will be investigated. The manufacturing processes will be researched using small sample sizes. Substrate material, glass material, fritting process, and coatings will be investigated for the detection of fluorescence. The grant will finalize these materials and processes. COMMERCIAL APPLICATIONS:This new device will enhance instruments for surface science applications which will open the field across electronics and magnetic materials, steel and nonferrous metals, ceramics, cement, machines, food, medicine, fruit trees, paints, cosmetics, and moreover, crime investigations and environmental pollution analysis

Detector Technology will develop and manufacture a 10cm2 large format cone. The cone will be based on a ceramic substrate then coated with glass frit. The cone will then be attached to a standard single channel multiplier. Detector Technology will also investigate different low work function coatings to improve the first strike statistic of fluorescence. Simultaneous research in conjunction with sub-contractor, Nova Scientific, will include a large format microreticular, microfiber, or microsphere plate, which would also be enhanced by Detector Technology with a low work function coating. The final unit will be tested at Brookhaven National Labs for efficiency of the detection of fluorescence. COMMERCIAL APPLICATIONS: The manufacturer of a large area high efficiency soft x-ray detector would open a $50,000,000 market to Detector Technology, Inc. Not only can Synchrotron Ring application be sought after, but also Wavelength-Dispersive X-Ray Fluorescence mass spectrometers. The knowledge gain on low work function coatings will also be applicable to other detection markets, such as environmental, medical, semiconductor, homeland defense and space