Performance of silicon microdosimetry detectors in boron neutron capture therapy

Reverse-biased silicon p-n junction arrays using Silicon-On-Insulator technology have been proposed as microdosimeters, The performance of such detectors in boron neutron capture therapy (BNCT) is discussed. This work provides the first reported measurements using boron-coated silicon diode arrays as microdosimeters in BNCT, Results are in good agreement with measurements with gas proportional counters. Various boron-coating options are investigated along with device orientation effects. Finally, U-235 coating is tested to simulate the behavior of the device in a heavy-ion therapy beam. (C) 1999 by Radiation Research Society.