Silicon detectors are electronic devices that measure ionizing radiation using the same semiconductor technology found in computer chips and digital cameras. When radiation passes through a piece of silicon, it creates tiny electrical charges that can be collected and measured by electronic circuits. This allows the detector to determine not only that radiation is present, but often also its energy and precise location. Thanks to their excellent accuracy, compact size, and ability to produce detailed measurements, silicon detectors are widely used in scientific research, medical imaging, space missions, and radiation monitoring systems.

In our laboratory we use and characterize silicon detectors for nuclear physics measurements, especially for charged particle detection.

Germanium detectors are highly sensitive instruments used to measure and identify ionizing radiation with exceptional precision. When radiation interacts with a specially purified germanium crystal, it produces tiny electrical signals that reveal the energy of the incoming radiation. Their outstanding energy resolution makes them an essential tool in nuclear science, environmental monitoring, homeland security, and the characterization of radioactive materials.

Our laboratory has extensive expertise in the operation and optimization of germanium detectors to tune their performances according to the scientific requirements of each experiment.

Radiation detectors require regular maintenance and conditioning to ensure reliable performance throughout their operational lifetime. These activities can include routine inspections, calibration checks, replacement or repair of electronic components, and verification of detector response. Some detector technologies also require specialized procedures; for example, germanium detectors may undergo annealing, a carefully controlled heating process used to repair damage caused by prolonged exposure to radiation and restore their performance.

Custom radiation detectors can be designed and assembled to meet the specific requirements of a particular application, whether for scientific research, industrial monitoring, environmental measurements, or security systems. The process involves selecting and integrating appropriate sensing materials, electronics, data acquisition systems, and mechanical components to achieve the desired performance. By tailoring the detector design to the intended use, our laboratory can build custom systems to provide capabilities that are difficult to achieve with off-the-shelf instruments, including improved sensitivity, specialized measurement functions, or operation in challenging environments.