Novel approaches to radiation detection and readout using the latch up effect

An alternative topology for solid-state pixel detectors is described. It is based on latch-up effect, usually exploited in solid-state electronic switches like thyristor and Silicon Controlled Rectifiers (SCRs). It is proposed here to use this effect as a simple building-block element for particle and radiation detection. Review of the latch-up effect and description of circuit topologies under investigation to assess the operating principle and initial experimental results will be presented. Applications in particle and radiation detection will be suggested.