Performance of the Hamamatsu R11410 Photomultiplier Tube in cryogenic Xenon Environments

TL;DR

This study evaluates the Hamamatsu R11410 photomultiplier's performance, stability, and response in cryogenic liquid xenon environments, relevant for dark matter detection experiments.

Contribution

It provides comprehensive experimental data on the R11410's behavior in LXe, including long-term stability and electric field response, supporting its use in dark matter detectors.

Findings

Demonstrated stable operation of R11410 in LXe over extended periods

Characterized the photomultiplier's response under different electric fields

Confirmed suitability of R11410 for cryogenic dark matter experiments

Abstract

The Hamamatsu R11410 photomultiplier, a tube of 3" diameter and with a very low intrinsic radioactivity, is an interesting light sensor candidate for future experiments using liquid xenon (LXe) as target for direct dark matter searches. We have performed several experiments with the R11410 with the goal of testing its performance in environments similar to a dark matter detector setup. In particular, we examined its long-term behavior and stability in LXe and its response in various electric field configurations.