Patent ID: 7767958
Filing Date: 2010-08-03
Classification: G01T,G01V,Y10S

Abstract:
1. A gamma-ray detector comprising: a housing having a window through which gamma rays can enter; the housing comprising; a two-dimensional array of electrically conducting carbon nanotubes, which act as a cathode, on a substrate; a metal plate electrode, which acts as an anode, positioned opposite the substrate so that there is a gap containing a gas between the electrode and the nanotubes; and a voltage source connected to the substrate and the electrode such that when in use the voltage between the substrate and the electrode is maintained below the arc-threshold voltage so that no electric current can flow through the gap between the nanotubes and the plate electrode; wherein the electrode and the substrate are arranged such that when a gamma ray enters the housing and hits one of the nanotubes a spark discharge is triggered between the nanotubes and the electrode creating an electrical current that can be measured and using the location of the current created to determine the position of the gamma ray impact.