Two-phase electron emission radiation detectors

Abstract

A new class of two-phase electron emission detectors has been introduced in experimental practice recently. The detectors employ effect of effective extraction of excess electrons from some condensed nonpolar dielectrics into equilibrium gas phase under influence of external electric field. This approach allows combination of massive working media for detection of rare events with gas-discharge or electroluminescence of rarefied media used for amplification of signals originated from a few or even singular electrons. Properties of working media suitable for emission detectors are discussed.Applications of two-phase dielectrics for detection of radiation and exotic particles are reviewed.