Modelling of low energy X-ray scattering in radiation detectors with protective coatings

Abstract

The results of Monte Carlo modelling of the low energy X-ray photon interaction processes in Si detector coated by different materials of different thickness are presented in this paper. Detector constructions containing free standing polymer-like carbon coatings and diamond-like carbon (DLC) coatings deposited onto detector surface were investigated. Total and scatter doses in coated samples were calculated and the influence of the coating material, composition, and thickness on the X-ray photon scattering processes in Si detector was evaluated. Evaluation of the detector construction with protective coating corresponding to the lowest fraction of scattered photons as compared to the calculated total dose is discussed in the paper. It is shown that nanothick DLC coatings directly deposited onto detector surface are promising materials in the construction of radiation detectors due to their suitable mechanical properties, resistance against chemicals and against radiation damage of DLC films.
Keywords: scattered radiation, detectors, Monte Carlo method, DLC films
PACS: 02.70.Uu, 29.40.Wk, 32.80.Cy, 81.05.Uw, 81.40.Wx