World's Largest Class Single Crystal Diamond Radiation Detector Opens New Possibilities for Diagnostic Imaging

Diamonds possess ideal physical properties for radiation detection, such as exceptional thermal and chemical stability along with a quick response time. Made of carbon with an atomic number of six, diamonds are particularly similar to biological tissue, which makes them highly suitable for radiation detection. As a result, diamonds have been widely researched as radiation detectors in nuclear engineering, nuclear fusion, high-energy physics, and medical applications. Until the 1990s, studies typically relied on select natural diamonds. However, since the early 2000s, improvements in chemical vapor deposition (CVD) technology have enabled the creation of high-purity synthetic diamonds, leading to better detector performance. Single-crystal CVD diamonds are noted for their high sensitivity and superior spectral qualities, while polycrystalline CVD diamonds, which offer larger detection areas, are less sensitive and provide poorer spectral characteristics compared to single-crystal diamonds.

Orbray Co., Ltd. (Tokyo, Japan) has developed a cutting-edge radiation detector based on its proprietary high-quality, large-diameter single-crystal diamond technology. The unique physical properties of diamonds, including their radiation resistance, allow Orbray’s diamond detectors to perform effectively in high-radiation environments where traditional detectors would deteriorate. Additionally, because diamond's composition closely matches that of biological tissue, it is especially beneficial for medical applications, such as radiation diagnostics and therapy. Orbray’s diamond-based detector has demonstrated the capability to perform precise measurements across a broad spectrum of radiation types, ranging from low-energy diagnostic X-rays to high-energy therapeutic X-rays.

Image: A 4mm square diamond radiation detector (Photo courtesy of Orbray)

In 2021, Orbray developed a 2-inch diameter high-quality (100) free-standing diamond substrate using its proprietary step-flow growth method. Leveraging this diamond, the company has created radiation detectors that exhibit high sensitivity and excellent spectroscopic performance in medical X-ray systems. The detector can be scaled for larger configurations, ensuring ultra-high sensitivity. Orbray is committed to further developing these products and is continuing to conduct user evaluations.

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