Optimizing photon capture: advancements in amorphous silicon-based microchannel plates
Abstract Microchannel plates are electron multipliers widely used in applications such as particle detection, imaging, or mass spectrometry and are often paired with a photocathode to enable photon detection. Conventional microchannel plates, made of glass fibers, face limitations in manufacturing f...
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| Main Authors: | , , , , , , , , , , |
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| Format: | Article |
| Language: | English |
| Published: |
Nature Portfolio
2025-04-01
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| Series: | Communications Engineering |
| Online Access: | https://doi.org/10.1038/s44172-025-00394-6 |
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| Summary: | Abstract Microchannel plates are electron multipliers widely used in applications such as particle detection, imaging, or mass spectrometry and are often paired with a photocathode to enable photon detection. Conventional microchannel plates, made of glass fibers, face limitations in manufacturing flexibility and integration with electronic readouts. Hydrogenated amorphous silicon-based microchannel plates offer a compelling alternative and provide unique advantages in these areas. Here, we report on the characterization of the time resolution of amorphous silicon-based microchannel plates. Using high photoelectron flux and an amplifier, we measured a time resolution of (4.6 ± 0.1) ps, while at lower fluxes, the arrival time uncertainty increased to (12.6 ± 0.2) ps. By minimizing the distance between the detector and a low-noise amplifier, we achieved a time resolution of (6.1 ± 0.2) ps even at low fluxes, demonstrating the exceptional timing capabilities of these detectors. Furthermore, we developed a new detector generation with funnel-shaped channel openings, increasing the active area to 95% and with simulated electron detection efficiency over 92%. Preliminary testing shows promising results, though challenges remain in single-particle detection. These findings highlight the potential of amorphous silicon-based microchannel plates for applications requiring high temporal resolution and detection efficiency. |
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| ISSN: | 2731-3395 |