Neutralizing the polarization effect of diamond diode detectors using periodic forward bias pulses

Abstract A new technique for neutralizing the polarization effect of diamond detectors has been demonstrated. The technique, which relies on the diamond detector to be configured as a diode, is to periodically pulse the diamond diode with forward bias. A 210 Po alpha source was used to induce the polarization effect for a thin PIN diamond radiation detector. Results show that for a single forward bias pulse, a forward current of about 60 nA applied for 1 s removes the polarization buildup. The benefits of using this technique add significant value to the diamond diode configuration.