The uTPC Method: Improving the Position Resolution of Neutron Detectors Based on MPGDs

TL;DR

This paper introduces the uTPC method, a novel analysis technique based on the TPC concept, that significantly enhances the spatial resolution of neutron detectors using MPGDs, meeting stringent requirements for advanced instruments like ESS.

Contribution

The paper presents a new TPC-based analysis technique that improves position resolution in neutron detection with MPGDs, achieving better than 200 um accuracy.

Findings

Achieved neutron interaction point resolution better than 200 um.

Demonstrated effectiveness of the uTPC method with a Single-GEM and 10B4C cathode.

Addresses the challenge of high spatial resolution in neutron detection.

Abstract

Due to the Helium-3 crisis, alternatives to the standard neutron detection techniques are becoming urgent. In addition, the instruments of the European Spallation Source (ESS) require advances in the state of the art of neutron detection. The instruments need detectors with excellent neutron detection efficiency, high-rate capabilities and unprecedented spatial resolution. The Macromolecular Crystallography instrument (NMX) requires a position resolution in the order of 200 um over a wide angular range of incoming neutrons. Solid converters in combination with Micro Pattern Gaseous Detectors (MPGDs) are proposed to meet the new requirements. Charged particles rising from the neutron capture have usually ranges larger than several millimetres in gas. This is apparently in contrast with the requirements for the position resolution. In this paper, we present an analysis technique, new in the field of neutron detection, based on the Time Projection Chamber (TPC) concept. Using a standard Single-GEM with the cathode coated with 10B4C, we extract the neutron interaction point with a resolution of better than sigma = 200 um.