Semiconductor Radiation Detectors

"In this work, Owens (Institute of Experimental and Applied Physics, Czech Republic) offers an up-to-date, encyclopedic assessment of modern radiation detection. Following a succinct historical retelling of the discovery of radiation and radiation detectors in chapter 1, chapters 2 and 3 present an exhaustive review of solid state physics at the upper-division undergraduate level, similar to material encountered in a one-semester course using C. Kittel's Introduction to Solid State Physics (8th ed., 2005). However, Owens prefers to use the relevant quantum mechanical results (e.g., Bloch functions) rather than their derivations.

The core of this volume discusses in detail the materials, fabrication, and characterization of semiconductor devices, including growth techniques and contact characteristics (electrode deposition), going far beyond the typical silicon and gallium arsenide examples. The final chapter explores the future of detector materials including nanoscintillators and biological detectors, as well as radiation detection using spintronics.

The addition of extensive references after each chapter and a useful set of appendixes (including calibration sources and a handy table of radionuclides) assures that this volume is well suited for senior engineering and physics students and researchers alike.

Summing Up: Recommended. Upper-division undergraduates through faculty and professionals.

-J. F. Burkhart, emeritus, University of Colorado at Colorado Springs"