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Microgap ultra-violet detector
U.S. Patent Number: 5349194
Abstract: A microgap ultra-violet detector of photons with wavelengths less than 400 run (4000 Angstroms) which comprises an anode and a cathode separated by a gas-filled gap and having an electric field placed across the gap. Either the anode or the cathode is semi-transparent to UV light. Upon a UV photon striking the cathode an electron is expelled and accelerated across the gap by the electric field causing interactions with other electrons to create an electron avalanche which contacts the anode. The electron avalanche is detected and converted to an output pulse.
Inventors: Wuest; Craig R. (Danville, CA), Bionta; Richard M. (Livermore, CA)
Assignee: The United States of America as represented by the United States (Washington, DC)
Application Number: 08/011,636
Issued: 1994-09-20
Expired: 2006-09-20
Classes: 250/372 ; 250/374
Field of search: 250/374,372
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