Application of the Micro Pixel Photon Counter to calorimetry and PET

Technological solutions are being investigated, in both fields of calorimetry and positron emission tomography, to increase the granularity of the detectors and achieve a better imaging resolution. The Geiger-mode avalanche photodiode looks a promising photo-detector for these compact designs. Up to now, the main limit of its application was the detection of the scintillation light, mostly ranging in the blue region: the traditional Geiger-mode avalanche photodiode is green sensitive. Hamamatsu has recently released a photo-detector of the same family, the Micro Pixel Photon Counter (MPPC), with a high photo-detection efficiency in the 420nm spectral region, opening a new scenario for the scintillator-based systems. The direct readout performances of a MPPC directly coupled to a plastic organic scintillator and to an inorganic scintillator (LSO) are systematically studied. Possible applications in highly granular calorimeters and positron emission tomography detectors are discussed

The Wolfson Centre for Materials Processing Incorporating The Centre for Phosphors and Displays Presented by Dr. K Tarverdi

Established in 1987, the Wolfson Centre has been a focus for materials research in Brunel University. Since its inception, the research in the Centre has been based on the development of extrusion and injection-moulding technologies relating to polymer compound formulation, process-induced structuring, nano-composite processing and the processing of metals, ceramics, soft solids and natural materials. The 'Centre for Phosphors and Display Materials' is a division of the Wolfson Centre for Materials Processing at Brunel University in Uxbridge, West London (only 10 minutes by taxi from London's Heathrow International Airport). It moved into a suit of new and fully re-furbished laboratories in January 2006. The centre was formed 38 years ago and has been continuously researching luminescent materials for this time. We maintain good liaisons with our past researchers and have a network of visiting professors who strengthen and support our expertise. We are a coherent research driven team carrying out novel research into luminescent materials with a particular interest in the displays and lighting industrial sectors. Dr Karnik Tarverdi is Director of Extrusion Technology