The use of MOSFETS in high-dose-rate radiation environments

Abstract

In military switching applications, the power MOSFET has become the device of choice. Military applications require survival, if not operation, during the prompt gamma pulse resulting from a nuclear explosion. This paper discusses the behavior of MOSFETs in high-dose-rate radiation environments, relating the performance to the device's structure. This understanding is used as a starting point for improving system performance by optimizing both device and circuit parameters.