Study of a new type of hard X-ray detector for HL-2A device

Abstract Background: The hard X-ray diagnostic system is important for HL-2A Tokamak experimental facility. In order to improve the diagnostic performance, a new hard X-ray detector with better precision is required. Purpose: This study aims to design a new type of hard X-ray detector to measure X-ray spatial energy spectrum and radiation intensity distribution for HL-2A. Methods: The new hard X-ray detection system is composed of lutetium-yttrium oxyorthosilicate (LYSO) scintillator and silicon photomultiplier (SiPM). Selection of the detector and detector design based on the Monte Carlo particle transport simulation tool GEANT4 are effectuated to meet the application requirements of the project. Corresponding front-end electronics was implemented together with the detector to measure the hard X-ray spatial energy spectrum and radiation intensity distribution on site. Results: The hard X-ray spatial energy spectrum with time resolution of 10 ms was successfully obtained in the experimental test using proposed new type of hard X-ray detector on the HL-2A Tokamak facility. Conclusion: Experimental results show that the detector array has good time resolution and meets the high-precision measurement demand of hard X-ray dynamic spectrum and intensity distribution in plasma diagnose for HL-2A Tokamak facility. It has the advantages of compact structure and easy to use as well. (authors)