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The current and possible uses of semiconductor solid state detectors in nuclear physics are briefly discussed. The theory of solid state detectors is discussed with emphasis on the silicon PIN diode detector. A fabrication process for silicon surface barrier position sensitive solid state detectors has been developed at UBC based on the work of J.B.A. England. A fabrication process recipe is included. A prototype surface barrier detector system has been built and tested at UBC and TRIUMF using this process. The device has 1 mm position resolution in one direction, an active area of 40 mm in diameter and a mass thickness of 55 mg/cm². The measured efficiency for 50 MeV pions is 70% and expected rate capability is in excess if 1 MHz per strip. The detector efficiency is limited by a marginal signal-to-noise ratio. / Science, Faculty of / Physics and Astronomy, Department of / Graduate

Railguns have great potential in military roles; however, they currently lack a fieldable power supply. Recent advances in the state of low voltage power storage devices may enable practical Pulse Forming Inductive Network power supplies to be developed if a suitable current interruption device is developed. A solid-state device in a counterpulsed opening switch configuration is a possible solution. A demonstration counterpulsed solid-state opening switch was constructed and successfully tested. This circuit consisted of Silicon Controlled Rectifier components, which can nominally only turn on current. The counterpulsed configuration allowed them to function as opening switches and to do so at much higher current relative to their specifications. We demonstrated current interruption at up to 1 kA of peak current. This demonstration system validates the counterpulsing concept and prepares for the construction of a modular, 250 kJ system.

Thesis (M.S. in Physics)--Naval Postgraduate School, June 2005. / Thesis Advisor(s): William B. Maier II, Richard Harkins. Includes bibliographical references (p. 29). Also available online.