Thursday 09 October 2025
Scientists have made a significant breakthrough in the development of advanced sensors that can detect tiny particles and energies. These sensors, called inverse Low-Gain Avalanche Detectors (iLGADs), are crucial for many applications, including medical imaging, high-energy physics, and national security.
The iLGAD is designed to be thin, with a thickness of just 250 micrometers, making it ideal for use in medical devices, such as PET scans. It has a pixel pitch of 55 micrometers, which allows for precise detection of particles and energies. The sensor is made up of silicon, a common material used in electronics, but with special properties that make it suitable for this application.
The iLGAD works by detecting the energy deposited by particles as they pass through the sensor. This energy is converted into an electrical signal, which can then be analyzed to determine the type and amount of particles present. The sensor is also designed to operate in a variety of environments, including high-radiation areas, making it suitable for use in applications where radiation is present.
In recent tests, the iLGAD has shown excellent performance, with an efficiency of 99.6%. This means that out of every 100 particles that pass through the sensor, nearly all are detected and counted accurately. The sensor also shows a time resolution of 377 picoseconds, which is extremely fast for such a small device.
One of the key features of the iLGAD is its ability to detect particles at grazing angles. This means that it can detect particles that are passing through the sensor at an angle, rather than directly into it. This is important because many particles do not pass directly through the sensor, and detecting them requires a more sophisticated approach.
The development of the iLGAD has been a collaborative effort between scientists from several institutions. They have used advanced computer simulations to design and test the sensor, as well as conducting experiments with real-world particles.
This breakthrough in sensor technology has the potential to revolutionize many fields, including medicine, physics, and national security. It could also lead to new discoveries and a deeper understanding of the universe.
Cite this article: “Advancing Detection Technology: Breakthrough in Inverse Low-Gain Avalanche Detectors (iLGADs)”, The Science Archive, 2025.
Sensors, Ilgad, Advanced, Medical Imaging, High-Energy Physics, National Security, Detection, Particles, Energy, Silicon
Reference: Daan Oppenhuis, “New results from fast timing iLGAD sensor on Timepix4” (2025).
