Abstract: A non-evacuated dewar 10 advantageously employs a molecular sieve 30 that serves to adsorb gasses in the dewar when cooled during operation of the detector 24 thereby preventing liquid formation onto the detector. The effects of outgassing and permeation during storage are substantially eliminated because the dewar package is in partial pressure equilibrium with its environment since the interior of the dewar is backfilled with the same inert gas as is in the surrounding outside environment. A second molecular sieve 40 may be used to adsorb moisture which may permeate into the housing.

Abstract: A non-evacuated dewar 10 advantageously employs a molecular sieve 30 that serves to adsorb gasses in the dewar when cooled during operation of the detector 24 thereby preventing liquid formation onto the detector. The effects of outgassing and permeation during storage are substantially eliminated because the dewar package is in partial pressure equilibrium with its environment since the interior of the dewar is backfilled with the same inert gas as is in the surrounding outside environment. A desiccant 40 made of a barium oxide/RTV silicone rubber composite may be used to adsorb moisture which may permeate into the housing.