Encapsulated Detectors

Encapsulation drastically enhances the germanium detector reliability. Mounting and operating multiple HPGe detectors in a shared vacuum with minimal spacing is challenging. Encapsulation techniques have been developed to address these challenges. Each detector is placed in its own vacuum-sealed aluminum canister, separating its vacuum from the shared cryogenic vacuum. Encapsulation improves the reliability of germanium detectors and is crucial for applications, particularly in space and ultra-high vacuum environments. This technology supports rugged applications like space exploration.

In nuclear physics experiments, encapsulated germanium detectors are now easier for users to handle, store, exchange, rearrange, and adapt to different applications with various cryostats. In a multi-detector array system, only the radiation-damaged detectors need to be annealed.

Encapsulation also provides easy access to the front-end electronics (FETs), allowing for FET replacement or specific preamplifier adjustments without risking the HPGe crystal in its sealed canister.