Low Cost, Disposable MEMS Radiation Detectors Using Gamma-Sensitive Polymers
Abstract
Micro-electrical mechanical systems (MEMS) radiation detectors can be used in a variety of fields, such as medicine, homeland security, and the nuclear power industry, and for a variety of applications, such as environmental studies and mining and geologic characterization. The objective of this thesis was to quantify the effect of gamma radiation on the gamma-sensitive polyvinylidene difluoride (PVDF) dielectric. These gamma-sensitive detectors produce real-time results and, due to their small size and low cost, can be implemented on a larger scale than traditional radiation-detection methods. It was hypothesized that the gamma radiation would increase the dielectric constant and thus the capacitance of the dielectric. Copper plates, acrylic plates, and aluminum foil were used in this research. The study concluded that the gamma radiation did increase the dielectric constant of the PVDF dielectric. However, environmental factors such as temperature, humidity, and light exposure appeared to have a concurrent effect on the dielectric constant.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Jun 01, 2020
- Accession Number
- AD1114675
Entities
People
- Benjamin P. Mchale
Organizations
- Naval Postgraduate School