New Configurations of Single - Crystal Scintillator Detectors in SEM
There are two reasons for designing special geometrical configurations of detectors of signal electrons in EM.1. For some traditional shapes of scintillators (discs) the quantum efficiency of single crystal YAG or YAP scintillators amounting to 5% - 7% is not fully utilized for achieving the maximum light output signal propagated in the desired. The reason is the small critical angle given by the high index of refraction of both single crystal materials. The shaping of single crystal scintillators and treating of surfaces by making use of the laws of geometrical optics lead to an increase of the value of the light output signal propagated in the desired direction.2. Different kinds of information carried by signal electrons (especially BSEs) of different types must be collected by a detector of a specific geometrical shape placed in a suitable position with regard to the specimen.Non-traditional geometrical configurations and optical modifications of detectors have been designed to solve the problem of a more efficient propagation of light towards the photocathode of PMT, considering different types of signal electrons.