Channeling in direct dark matter detection III: channeling fraction in CsI crystals

TL;DR

This paper estimates the fraction of channeled recoiling ions in CsI crystals, which affects the ionization signals in direct dark matter detection experiments, using historical analytic models of channeling effects.

Contribution

It applies classical channeling models to estimate the channeling fraction in CsI crystals relevant for dark matter detection.

Findings

Provides estimates of channeling fractions in CsI crystals

Highlights the impact of channeling on ionization signals in detectors

Uses established analytic models from past decades

Abstract

The channeling of the ion recoiling after a collision with a WIMP changes the ionization signal in direct detection experiments, producing a larger signal scintillation or ionization than otherwise expected. We give estimates of the fraction of channeled recoiling ions in CsI crystals using analytic models produced since the 1960's and 70's to describe channeling and blocking effects.