| Sensitive photodetectors find application in radiation detection systems where light from scintillating crystals must be measured to determine the energy, position, and/or time of radiation interactions. The use of traditional glass photomultiplier tubes has recently been challenged by the advent of solid state photosensors capable of resolving single optical photons. The silicon photomultiplier is an array of such sensors and presents unique detection and noise characteristics which must be thoroughly understood for optimal detection. This dissertation exposes the underlying statistical detection processes in order to indicate device parameters of greatest interest. Several unique fabrication methods are employed and analyzed which attempt to tailor the large electric fields required for acceleration and amplification of single photoelectrons. Transparent thin film processes are developed for integration of antireflection coatings and large-value avalanche quench resistors. |
