Unlocking Diamond’s Potential Beyond Charge Collection

Diamond is an ideal solid-state detector material for harsh radiation environments. Historically, diamond detectors were operated in the charge-collection mode. As a result, their application in safeguards has stalled because of the small device size and availability. We present a new approach using diamond’s excellent scintillation properties as a detector for both fast and thermal neutrons. By integrating polycrystalline diamond (layers, powders, films) acting as a scintillator detector of charged particles, and thin layers of material containing 6Li or 10B, diamond acts as an efficient neutron detector. Photodetectors such as SiPMs, APDs, or PMTs are used to capture the scintillation light. This proven but not practically used approach utilizes inexpensive, readily available diamond material and is suitable for making thermal and fast neutron detectors. The method of utilizing scintillation from diamond offers great versatility, potential for superior radiation tolerance, large effective areas (approaching 100% efficiency for thermal neutrons), and easier production compared to conventional Si-based detectors.