Radiation Imaging Detectors made by wafer post-processing of CMOS chips
Promotion date: 17. June 2009
Promotor: Prof. dr. Jurriaan Schmitz
| The purpose of this project is to develop a new, reliable technology for gaseous particle detectors based on integrated circuit technology.These detectors could be used in fields such as medical applications, high energy physics or X-ray imaging. Current detectors are hybrid, in the sense that the signal processing part (chip) is separated from the ionization detection part. In this project we aim to integrate both parts into one monolithic solution, which promises to bring a better detecting performance at lower mass and cost. |
Could you mention the reasons for studying this kind of sensors?
Radiation imaging gasesous detectors employed in high energy physics experiments, usually involve two parts, the sensor itself and the signal processing part (a microchip in our case). We were convinced that integrated detectors made by fabrication of a grid on top of CMOS microchips, using cleanroom facilities, would enhance the performance and make them more efficient. Also, the detectors were expected to be cheaper and more available in all kind of applications. We hope the detectors will be placed in high energy physics experiments, being used for example in CERN.
You went to Switzerland yourself?
Yes. For this project I also I worked for Nikhef in Amsterdam. So, I did some travelling.
Communication with Mesa+ was easy, because of the broad range of expertise available. Processing in the cleanroom is straightforward due to good facilities and the open atmosphere. I came into contact with Mesa+ while I was working on my MSc project at Imec in Leuven. One of my supervisors knew some people here at Mesa+. Originally I am from Dehesas in Spain, and I made my MSc in Zaragoza, also in Spain
What, in your opinion, is important for Mesa+ to stay successful in the future?
Building knowledge in the nano segment, one has to keep a very broad view, covering several domains of knowledge. Also, I believe, connections with big and small companies are important. For example using test facilities and sharing equipment can be very useful, for both.
What are your future plans?
I am looking for a job as a scientific researcher. I prefer a post-doc. It gives me more freedom in comparison to working in the industry, I believe. Now I can explore different directions and deepen my knowledge if I think that is the right way to do. I would like to keep my focus on nano technology, somewhere in Europe. Going to Switzerland, to CERN, would be very attractive for me, for example