Department
Physics
Major
Physics and Nuclear Engineering
Research Advisor
Bertino, Massimo
Alexander, Ralph
Advisor's Department
Physics
Second Advisor's Department
Physics
Funding Source
UMR Opportunities for Undergraduate Research Experiences (OURE) Program
Abstract
The purpose of this experiment is to demonstrate the ability of CdSe quantum dots to detect gamma radiation. Current methods for the detection of gamma radiation require large voltages and possess only semi-portability; moreover, detection of gamma radiation while accurate is plagued by material inefficiencies. Hence, there is need for small portable and efficient gamma-ray detectors. The ability of quantum dots to detect radiation has been predicted but not thoroughly examined in the laboratory. Here we prove that semiconductor quantum dots can be used to detect gamma radiation. Exposure of CdSe quantum dots to gamma rays causes a notable increase in their fluorescence. The increase of luminescence is probably due to photo corrosion of defects and was found to be linear in the range 20-200 kRad. Quantum dot detectors might represent a simple, rugged, solid-state device capable of providing portable and accurate gamma-ray detection.
Biography
Michael is a junior attending the University of Missouri-Rolla majoring in Physics and Nuclear Engineering with a minor in Mathematics. He is the son of David Hoffman and Tonya Toebben and is from Russellville, MO. On campus he is an active participant in the American Nuclear Society, the Society of Physics Students, and the Dean's Academy. Michael is currently involved with multiple research projects and tutors students in the Physics Leaming Center. Michael plans to attend graduate school and begin a career in research and development at an advanced laboratory or university with the intention of becoming a professor of physics.
Research Category
Natural Sciences
Presentation Type
OURE Fellows Final Oral Presentation
Document Type
Presentation
Location
Havener Center, Meramec Room
Presentation Date
11 April 2007, 9:30 am - 10:00 am
Detecting Gamma-rays with Quantum Dots
Havener Center, Meramec Room
The purpose of this experiment is to demonstrate the ability of CdSe quantum dots to detect gamma radiation. Current methods for the detection of gamma radiation require large voltages and possess only semi-portability; moreover, detection of gamma radiation while accurate is plagued by material inefficiencies. Hence, there is need for small portable and efficient gamma-ray detectors. The ability of quantum dots to detect radiation has been predicted but not thoroughly examined in the laboratory. Here we prove that semiconductor quantum dots can be used to detect gamma radiation. Exposure of CdSe quantum dots to gamma rays causes a notable increase in their fluorescence. The increase of luminescence is probably due to photo corrosion of defects and was found to be linear in the range 20-200 kRad. Quantum dot detectors might represent a simple, rugged, solid-state device capable of providing portable and accurate gamma-ray detection.
