Speaker
Dr
Giovanni Bencivenni
(LNF-INFN)
Description
By combining in a unique approach the solutions and improvements realized in the last years in the Micro-pattern-gas-detector (MPGD) field, we have developed a novel detector architecture called Resistive-WELL (R-WELL): a compact spark-protected single amplification stage MPGD).
The amplification stage of the detector, realized with a structure very similar to a GEM foil, is embedded through a resistive layer with the readout board. A cathode electrode, defining the gas conversion-drift gap, completes the detector mechanics. The new micro-structure has some characteristics in common with detectors developed by the end of the last century, such as CAT (Compter à Trous) and WELL.
The goal is to realize a very compact MPGD structure, robust against discharges and exhibiting large gains, easy to build, cost effective and suitable for mass production by industry.
Preliminary tests performed on small prototypes, with a resistivity of the resistive layer ranging from 100 MΩ/square to 1 GΩ/square have shown that the new structure exhibits a surprising gain of more than 6x10^3, a not negligible factor larger (5-6) with respect to a single-GEM detector, while the discharges are strongly suppressed thanks to the presence of the resistive layer. A rate capability of about 600 kHz/cm2 at a gain of 5000 has been measured.
A distinctive advantage of the proposed technology is that the detector, composed by very few components (only a simple cathode electrode close the device), does not require for complex and time-consuming assembly procedures (neither stretching nor gluing): the R-WELL is definitely much simpler than many other existing MPGDs, such as GEMs or Micromegas.
The novel detector will open the way to the instrumentation of large area fine tracking devices as well as huge calorimetric apparata at low cost and to effective applications beyond the research sector.
Primary author
Dr
Giovanni Bencivenni
(LNF-INFN)
Co-authors
Dr
Gianfranco Morello
(INFN-LNF)
Dr
Marco Poli Lener
(INFN-LNF)
