Evaluation of Large-Area Silicon Photomultiplier Arrays for Positron Emission Tomography Systems

An individual readout of silicon photomultipliers (SiPMs) would enhance the performance modern positron emission tomography (PET) systems. However, as it difficult to achieve in practice, a multiplexing SiPM arrays could be performed instead. In this study, we characterized three PET detector modules utilizing different models with active areas 3 × 3, 4 4, and 6 mm2. Each array was coupled LYSO crystal block. For multiplexing, used discretized positioning circuit obtain position energy information, applied first-order capacitive high-pass filter time-of-flight measurement capability detector. The similar among arrays, an resolution 10%–11%. best timing achieved area mm2, which yielded coincidence (CTR) value 401 ps FWHM when analog applied. We expect that, combination high-performance techniques, mm2 can provide cost-effective solution for developing whole-body scanner.