Miniature silicon photodiodes for photon and electron radiation dosimetry in therapeutical applications

The silicon diode is manufactured from P type silicon, the P layer is implanted with boron atoms and the N layer with phosphorus atoms. The diode dimensions are 2x2x0.2 mm. It is encased in elastic tissue-equivalent material. The electrodes are from an Al foil. The diode can be used as an in-vivo dosemeter in human body cavities. When irradiated, it supplies information on the instantaneous dose rate at a given point and on the dose cumulated over a certain time. Its current response to gamma radiation kerma rate is linear, directional sensitivity is isotropic. Temperature sensitivity of the photodiode is shown graphically for the range 20 to 40 degC, and the depth dose distribution measured in a water phantom is given for 6, 12 and 20 MeV photons and electrons. The diode energy dependence shows increased sensitivity to low-energy photons. (M.D.)