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PO-0801 - Large area 2D polycrystalline CVD diamond dosimeter under intensity modulated beams

MetadataDetails
Publication Date2016-04-01
JournalRadiotherapy and Oncology
AuthorsC. Talamonti, Andrea Baldi, M. Scaringella, M. Zani, D. Pasquini
InstitutionsIstituto Nazionale di Fisica Nucleare, Sezione di Firenze, University of Florence
AnalysisFull AI Review Included

Technical Documentation & Analysis: Large Area MPCVD Diamond Dosimeters

Section titled “Technical Documentation & Analysis: Large Area MPCVD Diamond Dosimeters”

Reference Paper: PO-0801: Large area 2D polycrystalline CVD diamond dosimeter under intensity modulated beams (Talamonti et al., ESTRO 35 2016)


  • Application Validation: Polycrystalline CVD (pCVD) diamond is confirmed as a highly suitable, tissue-equivalent material for advanced radiotherapy quality assurance (QA) detectors, specifically for Intensity Modulated Radiation Therapy (IMRT) and Volumetric Modulated Arc Therapy (VMAT).
  • High Spatial Resolution: The DIAPIX prototype, utilizing a 2 mm pixel pitch, successfully demonstrated the capability for high spatial resolution dose mapping, crucial for verifying complex modulated beams.
  • Accuracy: Measured dose profiles compared favorably with Treatment Planning System (TPS) calculations (Monaco/Pinnacle), showing general dose differences within 5%.
  • Scalability Requirement: The research identifies the need for larger, monolithic pCVD matrices (future target area 7.5 x 2.5 cm2) to cover typical IMRT fields completely.
  • 6CCVD Value Proposition: 6CCVD specializes in providing the necessary large-area, detector-grade PCD wafers (up to 125 mm) and custom metalization services required to scale this technology into clinical-grade, high-density dosimeters.

The following hard data points were extracted from the analysis of the pCVD diamond dosimeter prototype:

ParameterValueUnitContext
Material UsedPolycrystalline CVD Diamond (pCVD)N/ADetector-grade
Individual Sample Dimensions2.5 x 2.5cm2Two adjacent samples used in prototype
Pixel Matrix (Per Sample)12 x 12 (144 contacts)N/ABidimensional detector structure
Pixel Pitch2mmDefines spatial resolution
Total Future Target Area7.5 x 2.5cm2Required for 432-pixel monolithic device
Dose Difference (Accuracy)< 5%Compared to TPS (general region)
Distance-to-Agreement (DTA)< 3mmAchieved in high dose gradient (penumbra) regions
Irradiation SourceElekta Synergy LINACN/AUsed for IMRT, VMAT, and conventional photon beams
TPS Algorithms UsedMonaco v3.2 (MonteCarlo), Pinnacle v9.2 (Collapsed Cone Convolution)N/AUsed for QA plan computation

The performance verification of the large-area pCVD diamond dosimeter (DIAPIX) involved the following steps:

  1. Material Fabrication: Two detector-grade pCVD diamond samples (2.5 x 2.5 cm2) were prepared.
  2. Electrode Patterning: Each sample was equipped with a 12x12 contact matrix, featuring a 2 mm pitch, connected to a custom electronic read-out system.
  3. Experimental Setup: The dosimeter was placed at the isocenter and sandwiched within a water-equivalent phantom.
  4. Initial Calibration: Measurements were performed under a conventional flat radiotherapy beam to verify matrix uniformity and derive a flatness correction factor for each pixel.
  5. Modulated Beam Testing: Dosimetric maps were acquired using clinical IMRT (prostate/breast) and VMAT (lung) fields.
  6. Data Acquisition: Due to the prototype’s smaller size, measurements involved shifting the dosimeter in the Latero-Lateral direction to cover the field area.
  7. Verification: Measured dose maps and profiles were compared against QA plans computed by the Monaco and Pinnacle Treatment Planning Systems (TPS).

The successful development of large-area diamond dosimeters hinges on the ability to source high-quality, large-format pCVD material and execute precise micro-patterning. 6CCVD is uniquely positioned to supply the necessary components to replicate and advance this research.

Research Requirement6CCVD Material RecommendationTechnical Rationale
Detector-grade Polycrystalline CVD (pCVD)Electronic Grade PCD WafersOptimized for charge collection efficiency and high carrier mobility, essential for accurate, real-time dosimetry.
Large Area Coverage (Future 7.5 x 2.5 cm2)Custom PCD Plates (up to 125 mm)Enables the fabrication of monolithic, inch-size detectors, eliminating the need to stitch smaller samples and ensuring uniform response across the entire field.
High Spatial Resolution (2 mm pitch)Ultra-Thin PCD (0.1 ”m - 500 ”m)Control over thickness allows optimization of detector sensitivity and spatial resolution, minimizing volume averaging effects.

6CCVD offers comprehensive services to transition research prototypes into scalable, high-performance devices:

  • Custom Dimensions: We can supply PCD plates up to 125 mm in diameter, easily accommodating the required 75 mm x 25 mm area for the future 432-pixel matrix, ensuring a monolithic device structure.
  • Precision Patterning: Our in-house laser cutting and etching capabilities allow for the precise definition of the 2 mm pixel pitch and the creation of complex 12x12 or larger electrode matrices with high geometric accuracy.
  • Advanced Metalization: We provide custom metal contact deposition, critical for stable ohmic contacts and reliable signal readout. Available metals include Ti/Pt/Au (common for diamond detectors), as well as W, Pd, and Cu.
  • Surface Preparation: We offer high-quality polishing services for PCD, achieving surface roughness (Ra) < 5 nm on inch-size wafers, which is essential for subsequent lithography and reliable electrode adhesion.

6CCVD’s in-house PhD team specializes in the material science and engineering of diamond for radiation detection. We can assist researchers and engineers with:

  • Material Selection: Optimizing PCD grade and thickness for specific clinical requirements (e.g., maximizing sensitivity while maintaining tissue equivalence).
  • Design Consultation: Advising on optimal metalization schemes and electrode geometries for high-resolution Radiotherapy Dosimetry projects.
  • Global Logistics: Providing reliable global shipping (DDU default, DDP available) to ensure timely delivery of custom wafers for critical clinical research timelines.

For custom specifications or material consultation, visit 6ccvd.com or contact our engineering team directly.