A xenon gas proportional scintillation counter with a UV-sensitive large-area avalanche photodiode

The performance characteristics of a xenon gas proportional scintillation counter instrumented with an large-area avalanche photodiode with enhanced UV-sensitivity were evaluated. By integrating the photodiode within the xenon gas envelope of the scintillator, the intervening quartz window was eliminated. Energy resolutions of 7.8% and 4.4% were measured for 5.9-keV and 22.1-keV X-rays, respectively. The results demonstrate that large-area avalanche photodiodes may replace photomultiplier tubes without compromising the performance of the gas proportional scintillation counter.