Detection Of X Rays By A Surface Acoustic Delay Line In Contact With A Diamond Crystal

In this study, we present proof of concept for an x-ray detector. The hybrid device consists of a synthetic single crystal diamond in mechanical contact with a piezoelectric lithium niobate surface acoustic wave (SAW) delay line. Upon x-ray irradiation, the diamond crystal experiences a change in conductivity, which, in turn, very sensitively influences the SAW transmission on the delay line. This change in SAW attenuation is directly used to monitor the x-ray beam intensity. The SAW attenuation shows a monotonic variation with dose rate D in the studied range between 100 and 1800 mu Gy/s. While the response time leaves room for further improvement, the SAW detection principle offers the unique possibility for wireless remote powering and sensing.