A device for simultaneous spin analysis of ultracold neutrons

TL;DR

This paper introduces a novel device for simultaneous spin analysis of ultracold neutrons, enhancing measurement efficiency and sensitivity in neutron experiments, particularly for electric dipole moment research.

Contribution

The paper presents the design, construction, and testing of a new simultaneous spin analyser for ultracold neutrons, demonstrating improved statistical sensitivity over previous methods.

Findings

Gain in statistical sensitivity of 18.2% with the new device

Successful characterization of device components with ultracold neutrons

First tests confirm the device's effectiveness in neutron polarization measurement

Abstract

We report on the design and first tests of a device allowing for measurement of ultracold neutrons polarisation by means of the simultaneous analysis of the two spin components. The device was developed in the framework of the neutron electric dipole moment experiment at the Paul Scherrer Institute. Individual parts and the entire newly built system have been characterised with ultracold neutrons. The gain in statistical sensitivity obtained with the simultaneous spin analyser is $(18.2\pm6.1)\%$ relative to the former sequential analyser under nominal running conditions.