Semiconductor radiation detectors

Semiconductors were used to detect a wavelength region extending from the visible portion of the spectrum out to the thermal infrared. Detection processes were reviewed with a description of the operation of photoconductive, photovoltaic, and photoemissive devices. The detectors discussed include (1) visible and near infrared detectors with emphasis on silicon devices and on semiconductor photocathodes, (2) detectors for the thermal infrared with reference to lead sulphide, indium antimonide, cadmium-mercury telluride, and lead-tin telluride, and (3) a photon drag detector for broad band high power monitoring.