Tuesday 04 March 2025
The quest for precision in particle detection has led scientists to develop a new method that extends the energy range of Timepix3 detectors, allowing them to capture previously elusive particles. These detectors are used in various fields, including nuclear physics, life sciences and radiation imaging.
Timepix3 detectors consist of hybrid pixel readout chips that measure both arrival time and energy deposition of incident particles. The limitation of these detectors lies in their ability to accurately determine the energy of heavier ions due to electronic noise and charge sharing within the detector.
To overcome this challenge, researchers employed a novel correction method, which involves using short-ranged accelerated ions and spectroscopic alpha sources to calibrate the detector’s per-pixel response. This iterative approach enables the reliable measurement of energies up to 1.1 MeV, a significant improvement over the previous limit of 150 keV.
The new energy range opens up opportunities for particle spectroscopy measurements in nuclear physics experiments, where high-energy particles are crucial for understanding fundamental interactions. Additionally, the improved precision allows for more accurate spatial resolution in ion radiography applications, enabling researchers to visualize biological samples with unprecedented clarity.
The study also demonstrated the detector’s capabilities by capturing images of a housefly and a portion of a red onion using alpha particles from a 241Am source. These images showcase the detector’s ability to resolve details as small as 1 micron, a feat previously only achievable with thicker detectors.
One of the key advantages of Timepix3 detectors is their compact design, making them ideal for use in space missions and other applications where size and weight are crucial considerations. The new correction method is compatible with existing hardware, allowing researchers to easily upgrade their current detectors without significant modifications.
As scientists continue to push the boundaries of particle detection, the development of this new method marks an important milestone in the quest for precision and accuracy. With its improved energy range and spatial resolution, Timepix3 detectors are poised to play a vital role in advancing our understanding of the physical world and unlocking new insights into the behavior of particles at the smallest scales.
Cite this article: “Extending the Energy Range of Timepix3 Detectors”, The Science Archive, 2025.
Particle Detection, Timepix3 Detectors, Nuclear Physics, Life Sciences, Radiation Imaging, Particle Spectroscopy, Ion Radiography, Alpha Particles, Compact Design, Space Missions
