Speaker
Description
Laser–driven ion acceleration represents one of the most promising frontiers in high-power laser physics, offering compact sources of high-energy protons and ions with ultrashort duration and extreme instantaneous dose rates. The precise and time-resolved measurement of the depth–dose distribution of such beams is essential for their optimization and for future multidisciplinary applications, ranging from medical research to materials science.
Within the framework of the PRAGUE (Proton Range Measurement Using Silicon Carbide) project, we present the design, fabrication, and characterization of a novel real-time depth–dose detector based on thin multilayer silicon carbide (SiC) sensors, intended for both conventional and laser-accelerated proton beams. The unique material properties of 4H-SiC, wide bandgap, high breakdown field, high thermal conductivity, and intrinsic radiation hardness, make it a compelling candidate for high dose-rate, pulsed beam environments typical of laser-driven ion sources.
A detector stack comprising fifty fully depleted 10 µm-thick, 15 × 15 mm² SiC sensor layers has been developed, each equipped with an individual readout channel, enabling shot-by-shot retrieval of depth–dose profiles and particle range information. Electrical characterization (I–V and C–V) of the SiC sensors was performed to assess junction quality and depletion behaviour, providing essential parameters for the design of the dedicated readout chain. The electronic system, based on the 64-channel TERA08 chip, was optimized to ensure signal stability, shaping, and linearity across the expected dynamic range under both conventional and ultra-high dose-rate conditions. A comprehensive channel-by-channel characterization confirmed proper amplification and processing performance. Functional tests with X-rays, alpha particles, and proton beams validated the detector response and charge-collection behaviour, confirming its suitability for accurate dosimetric applications and reliable system integration.
The results demonstrate the robustness and potential of the proposed SiC detector concept as a compact and radiation-hard dosimetric system for next-generation laser–ion acceleration experiments, paving the way toward real-time range and dose monitoring in ultra-high dose-rate regimes. This detector system supports the development of advanced high-power laser-driven ion facilities and their future clinical and interdisciplinary applications.