Development and Study of a Micromegas Pad-Detector for High Rate Applications

TL;DR

This paper presents the design, testing, and optimization of Micromegas pad-detectors with spark-resistant layers for high-rate particle detection, demonstrating their potential for scalable, high-performance applications.

Contribution

It introduces a novel pad-based Micromegas detector with spark-resistant protection layers and adaptable design for large-scale deployment.

Findings

Effective spark-resistance achieved with new protection layers

Prototype detectors operate reliably at high rates

Design is scalable for larger detector systems

Abstract

In this paper, the design and the performance of two prototype detectors based on Micromegas technology with a pad readout geometry is discussed. In addition, two alternative implementations of a spark-resistent protection layer on top of the readout pads have been tested to optimize the charge-up behavior of the detector under high rates. The prototype detectors consist of 500 pads with a size of 5x4 mm, each connected to one independent readout channel, and cover an active area of 10x10 cm. The design of these prototypes and its associated readout infrastructure was developed in such a way that it can be easily adapted for large-size detector concepts.