Characterization of a HPHT diamond detector for clinical applications

An investigation of a high-pressure high-temperature (HPHT) synthetic diamond detector was performed with the aim to evaluate the potentiality of the detector for use in IMRT beams. Dosimetric parameters such as dynamics, stability of the response, linearity with dose and dose-rate dependence were studied and the HPHT sample behaviour was compared with that of a PTW natural diamond used as a reference system. In addition, a test in IMRT field using the step-and-shoot technique was also carried out on HPHT device.The main result of this study was the fast response shown by the HPHT sample, comparable to that of the natural diamond. Nevertheless, strong dose-rate dependence and the presence of the overshoot still limit the use of this system.