IDEAS uses Detector Diodes in space instrumentation for the purpose of radiation detection. Particles traversing the silicon deposit a charge, which can be measured and used to determine the type and energy of the particle. These diodes can be subject to Displacement Damage from radiation, which creates defects in the semiconductor lattice, leading to long-term electrical degradation.
(DD is also referred to as (total) non-ionizing dose damage (TNID)).
For the contents of a Master Thesis, we propose the following questions and tasks:
- To determine the electrical properties of the diodes that are important for their performance and are subject to change under radiation
- Develop a test setup that can measure these parameters
- Develop a test plan to irradiate diodes and measure DD effects, performing the test at suitable test facilities, taking input from ESAs ESCC and ECSS standards and consulting with experts
- Model the radiation and displacement damage under the test scenario
- Build the test setup, test jigs and hardware needed to perform the testing
- Trial the test setup without radiation
- If a suitable test facility is available
- Perform the testing
- Analyse the results
Suitable for long thesis (60 credits).