High-Purity Germanium Crystals for Low Background Counting Arrays

Efficiently grown germanium crystals and detectors are needed for DOE¿s low-background user facilities. These detectors are at the forefront of physics in the search for rare processes, such as neutrinoless double-beta decay, and also are used for low level counting facilities to characterize radioactive materials. In this project, germanium crystal growth techniques will be experimentally developed to achieve crystals having a very consistent circular outer diameter. Phase I will demonstrate the feasibility of a new crystal growth technique. In Phase II, the technique will be completed, enabling a new breed of commercially-available germanium gamma-ray detectors. Commercial Applications and other Benefits as described by the awardee: The new germanium crystal growth technique should greatly decrease the cost of large arrays of low background germanium detectors. Detectors made from these crystals will have immediate commercial application in research taking place in the DOE scientific community.