Showing papers in "Nuclear Instruments & Methods in Physics Research Section A-accelerators Spectrometers Detectors and Associated Equipment in 2013"

The Large Underground Xenon (LUX) experiment

Abstract: The Large Underground Xenon (LUX) collaboration has designed and constructed a dual-phase xenon detector, in order to conduct a search for Weakly Interacting Massive Particles (WIMPs), a leading dark matter candidate. The goal of the LUX detector is to clearly detect (or exclude) WIMPS with a spin independent cross-section per nucleon of 2 × 10 − 46 cm 2 , equivalent to ∼ 1 event / 100 kg / month in the inner 100-kg fiducial volume (FV) of the 370-kg detector. The overall background goals are set to have 1 background events characterized as possible WIMPs in the FV in 300 days of running. This paper describes the design and construction of the LUX detector.

Measurement of South Pole ice transparency with the IceCube LED calibration system

Abstract: The IceCube Neutrino Observatory, approximately 1 km(3) in size, is now complete with 86 strings deployed in the Antarctic ice. IceCube detects the Cherenkov radiation emitted by charged particles passing through or created in the ice. To realize the full potential of the detector, the properties of light propagation in the ice in and around the detector must be well understood. This report presents a new method of fitting the model of light propagation in the ice to a data set of in situ light source events collected with IceCube. The resulting set of derived parameters, namely the measured values of scattering and absorption coefficients vs. depth, is presented and a comparison of IceCube data with simulations based on the new model is shown. Published by Elsevier B.V.

IceTop: The Surface Component of IceCube

Abstract: IceTop, the surface component of the IceCube Neutrino Observatory at the South Pole, is an air shower array with an area of 1 km2. The detector allows a detailed exploration of the mass composition of primary cosmic rays in the energy range from about 100 TeV to 1 EeV by exploiting the correlation between the shower energy measured in IceTop and the energy deposited by muons in the deep ice. In this paper we report on the technical design, construction and installation, the trigger and data acquisition systems as well as the software framework for calibration, reconstruction and simulation. Finally the first experience from commissioning and operating the detector and the performance as an air shower detector will be discussed.

The performance of the Gamma-Ray Energy Tracking In-beam Nuclear Array GRETINA

Abstract: The Gamma-Ray Energy Tracking In-beam Nuclear Array (GRETINA) is a new generation high-resolution γ - ray spectrometer consisting of electrically segmented high-purity germanium crystals. GRETINA is capable of reconstructing the energy and position of each γ - ray interaction point inside the crystal with high resolution. This enables γ - ray energy tracking which in turn provides an array with large photopeak efficiency, high resolution and good peak-to-total ratio. GRETINA is used for nuclear structure studies with demanding γ - ray detection requirements and it is suitable for experiments with radioactive-ion beams with high recoil velocities. The GRETINA array has a 1 π solid angle coverage and constitutes the first stage towards the full 4 π array GRETA. We present in this paper the main parts and the performance of the GRETINA system.

A software tool for automatic classification and segmentation of 2D/3D medical images

Abstract: Modern medical diagnosis utilizes techniques of visualization of human internal organs (CT, MRI) or of its metabolism (PET). However, evaluation of acquired images made by human experts is usually subjective and qualitative only. Quantitative analysis of MR data, including tissue classification and segmentation, is necessary to perform e.g. attenuation compensation, motion detection, and correction of partial volume effect in PET images, acquired with PET/MR scanners. This article presents briefly a MaZda software package, which supports 2D and 3D medical image analysis aiming at quantification of image texture. MaZda implements procedures for evaluation, selection and extraction of highly discriminative texture attributes combined with various classification, visualization and segmentation tools. Examples of MaZda application in medical studies are also provided.

The Variable Polarization XUV Beamline P04 at PETRA III: Optics, mechanics and their performance

Abstract: The layout of the Variable Polarization XUV Beamline P04 at PETRA III is described with emphasis on selected examples of optics, mirrors and gratings. A precise characterization of the optics, their performance inside the holder and of the surrounding mechanics is presented. This also includes a detailed characterization of the different beamline mechanics as a whole (grating unit, exit slit unit, re-focusing unit) including the environment.

Scintillation and detection characteristics of high-sensitivity CeBr3 gamma-ray spectrometers

Abstract: Crystal growth and detector fabrication technologies have reached such a state of maturity that high-quality large-volume CeBr3 scintillators can now be produced with dimensions of 2″×2″ and well above. We present a study of CeBr3 samples of various dimensions and show that they have a number of advantages over equivalently sized LaBr3:5%Ce for gamma-ray spectroscopy applications requiring high detection sensitivity. At the present time, the achieved energy resolution of CeBr3 is about 4% FWHM at 662 keV, i.e. 25% worse than that of LaBr3:5%Ce. However, thanks to the drastically reduced intrinsic activity, CeBr3 gamma-ray detection sensitivity is about 1 order of magnitude better than that of LaBr3:5%Ce at energies of 1461 keV and 2614.5 keV, which are relevant for the detection of 40K and 208Tl (232Th), respectively. In this communication, we report on several aspects of CeBr3 gamma-ray spectrometers, such as scintillation characteristics, non-proportionality of the response, gamma-ray detection performances up to 3 MeV and radiation tolerance.

The BABAR detector: Upgrades, operation and performance

Abstract: The BaBar detector operated successfully at the PEP-II asymmetric e +e- collider at the SLAC National Accelerator Laboratory from 1999 to 2008. This report covers upgrades, operation, and performance of the collider and the detector systems, as well as the trigger, online and offline computing, and aspects of event reconstruction since the beginning of data taking.

Performance of cerium-doped Gd3Al2Ga3O12 (GAGG:Ce) scintillator in gamma-ray spectrometry

Abstract: Performance of cerium-doped Gd3Al2Ga3O12 (GAGG:Ce) scintillator in gamma-ray spectrometry has been investigated. The measurements of two samples of GAGG:Ce cover the tests of emission spectra (maximum of emission at about 530 nm), light output, non-proportionality, energy resolution, time resolution and decay time of light pulses. We compare the results with commonly known scintillators, such as NaI(Tl), LSO, LuAG etc. The results show that GAGG:Ce has a high light yield of about 33000 ph/MeV as measured with Hamamatsu S3590–18 Si PiN photodiode [1] . The total energy resolution for 662 keV gamma-rays from 137Cs source is equal to about 6%, whereas intrinsic resolution is equal to 5.2%. Additionally, we made basic measurements of photoelectron yield, non-proportionality and total energy resolution of small sample (5×5×5 mm3) of GAGG:Ce crystal coupled to Hamamatsu MPPC array (6×6 mm2). The results show that the performance of GAGG:Ce measured with the MPPC array are similar to those measured with the PMT.

Handy Compton camera using 3D position-sensitive scintillators coupled with large-area monolithic MPPC arrays

Abstract: The release of radioactive isotopes (mainly 137Cs, 134Cs and 131I) from the crippled Fukushima Daiichi Nuclear Plant remains a serious problem in Japan. To help identify radiation hotspots and ensure effective decontamination operation, we are developing a novel Compton camera weighting only 1 kg and measuring just ∼ 10 cm 2 in size. Despite its compactness, the camera realizes a wide 180° field of vision with a sensitivity about 50 times superior to other cameras being tested in Fukushima. We expect that a hotspot producing a 5 μ Sv / h dose at a distance of 3 m can be imaged every 10 s, with angular resolution better than 10° (FWHM). The 3D position-sensitive scintillators and thin monolithic MPPC arrays are the key technologies developed here. By measuring the pulse-height ratio of MPPC-arrays coupled at both ends of a Ce:GAGG scintillator block, the depth of interaction (DOI) is obtained for incident gamma rays as well as the usual 2D positions, with accuracy better than 2 mm. By using two identical 10 mm cubic Ce:GAGG scintillators as a scatterer and an absorber, we confirmed that the 3D configuration works well as a high-resolution gamma camera, and also works as spectrometer achieving typical energy resolution of 9.8% (FWHM) for 662 keV gamma rays. We present the current status of the prototype camera (weighting 1.5 kg and measuring 8.5×14×16 cm3 in size) being fabricated by Hamamatsu Photonics K.K. Although the camera still operates in non-DOI mode, angular resolution as high as 14° (FWHM) was achieved with an integration time of 30 s for the assumed hotspot described above.

Neutron light output response and resolution functions in EJ-309 liquid scintillation detectors

Abstract: Neutron light output response functions and detector resolution functions were measured at Ohio University's tandem Van de Graaff generator for three cylindrical EJ-309 liquid scintillator cells, having dimensions 12.7 ( ∅ )-by-12.7, 7.6-by-7.6, and 7.6-by-5.1 cm. A 7.44 MeV deuteron beam was used on an 27Al target generating a continuous spectrum over the energy range from a few hundred keV to over 10 MeV. The light output response functions are determined using an exponential fit. Detector resolution functions are obtained for the 12.7-by-12.7 and 7.6-by-7.6 cm detectors. It is demonstrated that the dependence on detector size is important for the light output response functions, but not to the same extent for the resolution function, even when photomultiplier tubes, detector material, and other detector characteristics are carefully matched.

XMASS detector

Abstract: The XMASS project aims to detect dark matter, pp and $^{7}$Be solar neutrinos, and neutrinoless double beta decay using ultra pure liquid xenon The first phase of the XMASS experiment searches for dark matter In this paper, we describe the XMASS detector in detail, including its configuration, data acquisition equipment and calibration system

Pulse shape discrimination in the plastic scintillator EJ-299-33

Abstract: New advances in plastic scintillation compositions have opened the field to new, exciting instruments capable of neutron-gamma ray pulse shape discrimination (PSD). We present PSD figure of merit parameters and neutron time-of-flight from Cf-252 using a 5.08-cm diameter by 5.08-cm thick sample of PSD-capable plastic scintillator EJ-299-33 and compare these results to those from a same-sized EJ-309 liquid scintillator detector. An offline, digital PSD method was applied to both detectors. The results show that EJ-299-33 plastic PSD is very good, having a figure of merit of approximately 0.9 for 120 keVee threshold; however the EJ-309 liquid scintillator PSD is superior to the EJ-299-33 plastic scintillator PSD, with a figure of merit of 1.5 at the same measurement threshold. We also found that the EJ-299-33 has reduced neutron detection efficiency compared to the EJ-309. For the fission neutron spectrum measured here, the ratio of the plastic to liquid total number of measured neutrons was approximately 0.63.

CSPAD-140k: A versatile detector for LCLS experiments

Abstract: The CSPAD-140k is a 140 kilopixel detector based on the Cornell-SLAC hybrid Pixel Array Detector (CSPAD) platform, developed around the CSPAD ASIC. Room temperature operation, 14 bit on chip digitization with a purely digital data interface, and scaling modularity are some important characteristics that make this platform an effective choice for designing detector variants optimized for a range of experiments and applications. The CSPAD-140k has an active area of approximately 4×4 cm2 and four ASICs, bundled in a small, inexpensive and easy-to-deploy package. Due to its versatility it has already been used successfully in several experiments at the CXI, XPP and XCS instruments at LCLS. This work also describes problems faced by scaling from a prototype system to a full size X-ray camera and presents the current status on the improvements achieved.

Near-intrinsic energy resolution for 30–662 keV gamma rays in a high pressure xenon electroluminescent TPC

Abstract: We present the design, data and results from the NEXT prototype for Double Beta and Dark Matter (NEXT-DBDM) detector, a high-pressure gaseous natural xenon electroluminescent time projection chamber (TPC) that was built at the Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory. It is a prototype of the planned NEXT-100 136Xe neutrino-less double beta decay (0νββ) experiment with the main objectives of demonstrating near-intrinsic energy resolution at energies up to 662 keV and of optimizing the NEXT-100 detector design and operating parameters. Energy resolutions of ∼1% FWHM for 662 keV gamma rays were obtained at 10 and 15 atm and ∼5% FWHM for 30 keV fluorescence xenon X-rays. These results demonstrate that 0.5% FWHM resolutions for the 2459 keV hypothetical neutrino-less double beta decay peak are realizable. This energy resolution is a factor 7-20 better than that of the current leading 0νββ experiments using liquid xenon and thus represents a significant advancement. We present also first results from a track imaging system consisting of 64 silicon photo-multipliers recently installed in NEXT-DBDM that, along with the excellent energy resolution, demonstrates the key functionalities required for the NEXT-100 0νββ search

Development of a head scanner for proton CT

Abstract: We describe a new head scanner developed for Proton Computed Tomography (pCT) in support of proton therapy treatment planning, aiming at reconstructing an accurate map of the stopping power (S.P.) in a phantom and, in the future, in patients. The system consists of two silicon telescopes which track the proton before and after the phantom/patient, and an energy detector which measures the residual energy or range of the proton to reconstruct the Water Equivalent Path Length (WEPL) in the phantom. Based on the experience of the existing prototype and extensive Geant4 simulations and CT reconstructions, the new pCT scanner will support clinically useful proton fluxes.

Ultra-fast silicon detectors

Abstract: We propose to develop a fast, thin silicon sensor with gain capable to concurrently measure with high precision the space (∼10 μm) and time (∼10 ps) coordinates of a particle. This will open up new application of silicon detector systems in many fields. Our analysis of detector properties indicates that it is possible to improve the timing characteristics of silicon-based tracking sensors, which already have sufficient position resolution, to achieve four-dimensional high-precision measurements. The basic sensor characteristics and the expected performance are listed, the wide field of applications are mentioned and the required R&D topics are discussed.

Performance of Particle Flow Calorimetry at CLIC

Abstract: The particle flow approach to calorimetry can provide unprecedented jet energy resolution at a future high energy collider, such as the International Linear Collider (ILC). However, the use of particle flow calorimetry at the proposed multi-TeV Compact Linear Collider (CLIC) poses a number of significant new challenges. At higher jet energies, detector occupancies increase, and it becomes increasingly difficult to resolve energy deposits from individual particles. The experimental conditions at CLIC are also significantly more challenging than those at previous electron-positron colliders, with increased levels of beam-induced backgrounds combined with a bunch spacing of only 0.5 ns. This paper describes the modifications made to the PandoraPFA particle flow algorithm to improve the jet energy reconstruction for jet energies above 250 GeV. It then introduces a combination of timing and pT cuts that can be applied to reconstructed particles in order to significantly reduce the background. A systematic study is performed to understand the dependence of the jet energy resolution on the jet energy and angle, and the physics performance is assessed via a study of the energy and mass resolution of W and Z particles in the presence of background at CLIC. Finally, the missing transverse momentum resolution is presented, and the fake missing momentum is quantified. The results presented in this paper demonstrate that high granularity particle flow calorimetry leads to a robust and high resolution reconstruction of jet energies and di-jet masses at CLIC.

Pulse shape discrimination with lithium-containing organic scintillators

Abstract: 6Li-containing organic scintillators have been prepared and characterized as a new type of transparent, single-phase materials with pulse shape discrimination (PSD) properties for simultaneous detection of thermal and fast neutrons discriminated from gamma radiation. Tests conducted with recently developed PSD-capable plastic scintillators showed that incorporation of 6Li into the aromatic matrix with fast-neutron/gamma discrimination properties offers the additional sensitivity to thermal neutrons, substantially increasing efficiency and the energy range of neutron detection. Comparative analyses of 6Li-loaded plastic, liquid and single crystal organic scintillators provide evidence that, in addition to neutron/gamma discrimination, these novel materials have the ability for discrimination between the signatures of fast and thermal neutrons.

Pulse-shape analysis of CLYC for thermal neutrons, fast neutrons, and gamma-rays

Abstract: Cs2LiYCl6:Ce (CLYC) has been demonstrated to be sensitive to thermal neutrons via the 6Li(n, α )t reaction, and recently to fast neutrons via the 35Cl(n,p) reaction. The scintillation properties of CLYC have been investigated in more detail to further understand its capabilities. Pulses from thermal neutron, fast neutron, and γ -ray induced excitations were captured, digitized over a 16 μ s time range, and analyzed to identify the scintillation mechanisms responsible for the observed shapes. Additionally, the timing resolutions of CLYC crystals of different sizes were measured in coincidence with a fast CeBr3 scintillator. The effect of high count rates on fast neutron energy resolution and pulse-shape discrimination was investigated up to 45 kHz.

Characterization of large volume 3.5″×8″ LaBr3:Ce detectors

Abstract: The properties of large volume cylindrical 3.5″×8″ (89 mm×203 mm) LaBr 3 :Ce scintillation detectors coupled to the Hamamatsu R10233-100SEL photo-multiplier tube were investigated. These crystals are among the largest ones ever produced and still need to be fully characterized to determine how these detectors can be utilized and in which applications. We tested the detectors using monochromatic γ–ray sources and in-beam reactions producing γ rays up to 22.6 MeV; we acquired PMT signal pulses and calculated detector energy resolution and response linearity as a function of γ-ray energy. Two different voltage dividers were coupled to the Hamamatsu R10233-100SEL PMT: the Hamamatsu E1198-26, based on straightforward resistive network design, and the “LABRVD”, specifically designed for our large volume LaBr 3 :Ce scintillation detectors, which also includes active semiconductor devices. Because of the extremely high light yield of LaBr 3 :Ce crystals we observed that, depending on the choice of PMT, voltage divider and applied voltage, some significant deviation from the ideally proportional response of the detector and some pulse shape deformation appear. In addition, crystal non-homogeneities and PMT gain drifts affect the (measured) energy resolution especially in case of high-energy γ rays. We also measured the time resolution of detectors with different sizes (from 1″×1″ up to 3.5″×8″), correlating the results with both the intrinsic properties of PMTs and GEANT simulations of the scintillation light collection process. The detector absolute full energy efficiency was measured and simulated up to γ-rays of 30 MeV

Radiation Hardness Tests of SiPMs for the JLab Hall D Barrel Calorimeter

Abstract: We report on the measurement of the neutron radiation hardness of silicon photomultipliers (SiPMs) manufactured by Hamamatsu Corporation in Japan and SensL in Ireland. Samples from both companies were irradiated by neutrons created by a 1 GeV electron beam hitting a thin lead target at Jefferson Lab Hall A. More tests regarding the temperature dependence of the neutron radiation damage and self-annealing were performed on Hamamatsu SiPMs using a calibrated Am–Be neutron source from the Jefferson Lab Radiation Control group. As the result of irradiation both dark current and dark rate increase linearly as a function of the 1 MeV equivalent neutron fluence and a temperature dependent self-annealing effect is observed.

X-ray detectors in medical imaging

Abstract: Healthcare systems are subject to continuous adaptation, following trends such as the change of demographic structures, the rise of life-style related and chronic diseases, and the need for efficient and outcome-oriented procedures. This also influences the design of new imaging systems as well as their components. The applications of X-ray imaging in the medical field are manifold and have led to dedicated modalities supporting specific imaging requirements, for example in computed tomography (CT), radiography, angiography, surgery or mammography, delivering projection or volumetric imaging data. Depending on the clinical needs, some X-ray systems enable diagnostic imaging while others support interventional procedures. X-ray detector design requirements for the different medical applications can vary strongly with respect to size and shape, spatial resolution, frame rates and X-ray flux, among others. Today, integrating X-ray detectors are in common use. They are predominantly based on scintillators (e.g. CsI or Gd 2 O 2 S) and arrays of photodiodes made from crystalline silicon (Si) or amorphous silicon (a-Si) or they employ semiconductors (e.g. Se) with active a-Si readout matrices. Ongoing and future developments of X-ray detectors will include optimization of current state-of-the-art integrating detectors in terms of performance and cost, will enable the usage of large size CMOS-based detectors, and may facilitate photon counting techniques with the potential to further enhance performance characteristics and foster the prospect of new clinical applications.

High-voltage pixel detectors in commercial CMOS technologies for ATLAS, CLIC and Mu3e experiments

Abstract: High-voltage particle detectors in commercial CMOS technologies are a detector family that allows implementation of low-cost, thin and radiation-tolerant detectors with a high time resolution. In the R/D phase of the development, a radiation tolerance of 10 15 n eq / cm 2, nearly 100% detection efficiency and a spatial resolution of about 3 μm were demonstrated. Since 2011 the HV detectors have first applications: the technology is presently the main option for the pixel detector of the planned Mu3e experiment at PSI (Switzerland). Several prototype sensors have been designed in a standard 180 nm HV CMOS process and successfully tested. Thanks to its high radiation tolerance, the HV detectors are also seen at CERN as a promising alternative to the standard options for ATLAS upgrade and CLIC. In order to test the concept, within ATLAS upgrade R/D, we are currently exploring an active pixel detector demonstrator HV2FEI4; also implemented in the 180 nm HV process.

The T2K Side Muon Range Detector (SMRD)

Abstract: The T2K experiment is a long baseline neutrino oscillation experiment aiming to observe the appearance ofe in a �µ beam. The �µ beam is produced at the Japan Proton Accelerator Research Complex (J-PARC), observed with the 295 km distant Super- Kamiokande Detector and monitored by a suite of near detectors at 280m from the proton target. The near detectors include a magnetized off-axis detector (ND280) which measures the un-oscillated neutrino flux and neutrino cross sections. The present paper describes the outermost component of ND280 which is a side muon range detector (SMRD) composed of scintillation counters with embedded wavelength shifting fibers and Multi-Pixel Photon Counter read-out. The components, performance and response of the SMRD are presented.

Water calibration measurements for neutron radiography: Application to water content quantification in porous media

Abstract: Using neutron radiography, the measurement of water thickness was performed using aluminum (Al) water calibration cells at the High Flux Isotope Reactor (HFIR) Cold-Guide (CG) 1D neutron imaging facility at Oak Ridge National Laboratory, Oak Ridge, TN, USA. Calibration of water thickness is an important step to accurately measure water contents in samples of interest. Neutron attenuation by water does not vary linearly with thickness mainly due to beam hardening and scattering effects. Transmission measurements for known water thicknesses in water calibration cells allow proper correction of the underestimation of water content due to these effects. As anticipated, strong scattering effects were observed for water thicknesses greater than 0.2 cm when the water calibration cells were positioned close to the face of the detector/scintillator (0 and 2.4 cm away, respectively). The water calibration cells were also positioned 24 cm away from the detector face. These measurements resulted in less scattering and this position (designated as the sample position) was used for the subsequent experimental determination of the neutron attenuation coefficient for water. Neutron radiographic images of moist Flint sand in rectangular and cylindrical containers acquired at the sample position were used to demonstrate the applicability of the water calibration. Cumulative changes in the water volumes within the sand columns during monotonic drainage determined by neutron radiography were compared with those recorded by direct reading from a burette connected to a hanging water column. In general, the neutron radiography data showed very good agreement with those obtained volumetrically using the hanging water-column method. These results allow extension of the calibration equation to the quantification of unknown water contents within other samples of porous media.

An algorithm for online optimization of accelerators

Abstract: A general algorithm is developed for online optimization of accelerator performance, i.e., online tuning, using the performance measure as the objective function. This method, named robust conjugate direction search (RCDS), combines the conjugate direction set approach of Powell's method with a robust line optimizer which considers the random noise in bracketing the minimum and uses parabolic fit of data points that uniformly sample the bracketed zone. It is much more robust against noise than traditional algorithms and is therefore suitable for online application. Simulation and experimental studies have been carried out to demonstrate the strength of the new algorithm.

High resolution alpha particle detection using 4H–SiC epitaxial layers: Fabrication, characterization, and noise analysis

Abstract: In this article we report the fabrication and characterization of large area, room-temperature operable and very high resolution Schottky barrier detectors for alpha particles using 20 μm thick n-type 4H–SiC epitaxial layers. Schottky barriers were fabricated by depositing circular nickel contacts of ~11 mm2 area on the 4H–SiC epitaxial layers. Room temperature current–voltage measurements revealed very high Schottky barrier height of 1.6 eV and extremely low leakage current of 3.5 pA at an operating reverse bias of −90 V. We also report an energy resolution of 0.29%, which is the best resolution obtained so far for uncollimated 5.48 MeV alpha particles in 4H–SiC epitaxial detectors with such a large area. Very low micropipe density (

An Ultra-Low Background PMT for Liquid Xenon Detectors

Abstract: Results are presented from radioactivity screening of two models of photomultiplier tubes designed for use in current and future liquid xenon experiments. The Hamamatsu 5.6 cm diameter R8778 PMT, used in the LUX dark matter experiment, has yielded a positive detection of four common radioactive isotopes: 238U, 232Th, 40K, and 60Co. Screening of LUX materials has rendered backgrounds from other detector materials subdominant to the R8778 contribution. A prototype Hamamatsu 7.6 cm diameter R11410 MOD PMT has also been screened, with benchmark isotope counts measured at <0.4 238U/<0.3 232Th/<8.3 40K/2.0±0.2 60Co mBq/PMT. This represents a large reduction, equal to a change of ×124 238U/×19 232Th/×18 40K per PMT, between R8778 and R11410 MOD, concurrent with a doubling of the photocathode surface area (4.5–6.4 cm diameter). 60Co measurements are comparable between the PMTs, but can be significantly reduced in future R11410 MOD units through further material selection. Assuming PMT activity equal to the measured 90% upper limits, Monte Carlo estimates indicate that replacement of R8778 PMTs with R11410 MOD PMTs will change LUX PMT electron recoil background contributions by a factor of ×125 after further material selection for 60Co reduction, and nuclear recoil backgrounds by a factor of ×136. The strong reduction in backgrounds below the measured R8778 levels makes the R11410 MOD a very competitive technology for use in large-scale liquid xenon detectors.

Production and optical properties of Gd-loaded liquid scintillator for the RENO neutrino detector

Abstract: Reactor experiment for neutrino oscillation (RENO) began data-taking from August 2011. It successfully observed reactor antineutrino disappearance in April 2012 to measure the smallest mixing angle of θ 13 . Two identical detectors, one at near location and the other at far location, are constructed at the Yonggwang nuclear power plant in South Korea, to compare the observed reactor neutrino fluxes. Each RENO detector is filled with 16 mass tons of Gadolinium loaded liquid scintillator (GdLS) in the neutrino target region, and with 28 mass tons of unloaded liquid scintillator (LS) in the γ - catcher region surrounding the target. LS was developed to satisfy chemical, physical, optical properties, and safety requirements. Linear alkyl benzene (LAB) was chosen as a solvent because of its high flash-point, sufficient light yield, and being environmentally friendly. GdLS is carefully developed to keep a long attenuation length and high light yield for a long time period. In this paper, we report the characteristics and mass production of the RENO LS and GdLS.