Groundbreaking Development

TOKYO, April 8, 2025 - In a groundbreaking advancement, Orbray Co., Ltd. has unveiled a state-of-the-art radiation detector crafted from high-quality, large-diameter single-crystal diamonds. This innovative technology opens up new frontiers in both medical diagnostics and scientific research, promising to improve the precision and reliability of radiation measurements in high-radiation environments where conventional detectors fail.

Importance of the Development

Why is this development so crucial? Unlike traditional detectors that tend to degrade under intense radiation, the diamond-based detector benefits from the exceptional properties of diamond — notably its incredible radiation hardness and stability. This quality makes it an ideal candidate for applications in radiation therapy and diagnostics in the medical field, where accurate data is paramount for effective treatment.

Unique Properties of Diamond

What sets diamond apart from other materials? The atomic structure of diamond, composed of carbon, closely mimics that of biological tissue. This similarity enhances its effectiveness for medical use, enabling precise measurements across a spectrum of radiation types, from low-energy diagnostic X-rays to high-energy therapeutic applications.

Advancements in Diamond Synthesis

Orbray's pioneering work leverages the advancements in chemical vapor deposition (CVD) technology that have transformed diamond synthesis since the early 2000s. Prior to this, research primarily depended on naturally occurring diamonds, which limited performance capabilities. With the advent of high-purity single-crystal CVD diamonds, the potential for radiation detection has soared. These diamonds feature superior sensitivity and spectral qualities that vastly outshine those of polycrystalline CVD counterparts.

Collaboration and Development

In 2021, Orbray made significant headway by developing a 2-inch diameter high-quality free-standing diamond substrate through its proprietary step-flow growth method. This diamond technology has collaborated with prominent institutions including Tokyo Metropolitan University and Tohoku University, resulting in radiation detectors that demonstrate exceptional sensitivity and spectral precision in X-ray systems used in medical practices.

Implications for the Future

The implications of this technology are profound. The ability to scale these detectors to larger configurations paves the way for ultra-high sensitivity detection, enabling groundbreaking advancements in patient diagnostics and treatments.

Upcoming Exhibition

The scientific community and medical professionals can gain further insight into Orbray's revolutionary manufacturing techniques and the impressive evaluation results of their detectors at the Japan Radiology Congress 2025, taking place in Yokohama from April 10 to 13. Attendees will have the opportunity to see these pioneering detectors on display at the exhibition alongside the congress.

Conclusion

This exceptional innovation promises to shape the future of radiation detection, bridging the gap between medical applications and scientific exploration. Will such advancements change the landscape of diagnostic procedures forever? Stay tuned as we dive deeper into the remarkable potential of diamond technology!