Feasibility study of a novel multi-strip silicon detector for use in proton therapy range verification quality assurance

The characterisation of a novel multi-strip silicon detector, the serial Dose Magnifying Glass, to incident 60 MeV mono-energetic proton beams, typical for ocular melanoma treatment, was performed by means of Geant4 simulations and experimental methods. Geant4 simulations were performed to determine the applicability and potential of the detector for proton beam range verification with high spatial resolution. Experimental characterisation was performed using the CATANA beam line to confirm the Monte Carlo feasibility study and determine the detector response to incident proton beams of 5 mm, 13 mm, 25 mm and 36 mm diameter, in addition to the detector response when PMMA slabs are positioned between the detector and the beam nozzle. Results indicate the suitability of the detector for proton beam range verification in proton therapy Quality Assurance.