R2D2 spherical TPC: first energy resolution results. (4th March 2021)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Bouet, R.; Busto, J.; Cecchini, V.; Cerna, C.; Dastgheibi-Fard, A.; Druillole, F.; Jollet, C.; Hellmuth, P.; Katsioulas, I.; Knights, P.; Giomataris, I.; Gros, M.; Lautridou, P.; Meregaglia, A.; Navick, X.F.; Neep, T.; Nikolopoulos, K.; Perrot, F.; Piquemal, F.; Roche, M.; Thomas, B.; Ward, R.; Zampaolo, M.
• Is Part Of: Journal of instrumentation. Volume 16:Number 3(2021)
• Publication Date: 2021-03-04
• Subjects: Double-beta decay detectors -- Neutrino detectors -- Time projection chambers; Scientific apparatus and instruments -- Periodicals; 502.84
• DOI: 10.1088/1748-0221/16/03/P03012
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 1748-0221

Abstract

Abstract: Spherical time projection chambers (TPC), also known as spherical proportional counters, are employed in the search for rare phenomena, such as light Dark Matter candidates. The spherical TPC exhibits a number of essential features, making it a promising candidate for the search of neutrinoless double beta decay (ββ0ν). A tonne-scale spherical TPC experiment could cover a region of parameter space relevant for the inverted mass hierarchy with a few years of data taking. In this direction, the major R&D goal of the R2D2 effort is the demonstration of the required energy resolution. First results from an argon-filled prototype detector are reported, demonstrating an energy resolution of 1.1% FWHM for 5.3 MeV α tracks in the 0.2 to 1.1 bar pressure range. This is a major milestone in terms of energy resolution, paving the way for further studies with xenon gas, and the possible use of this technology for ββ0ν searches.