Design and analysis of a 1-ton prototype of the Jinping Neutrino Experiment

TL;DR

This paper presents the design, structural analysis, and safety assessment of a 1-ton prototype for the Jinping Neutrino Experiment, aimed at detecting solar and geo-neutrinos with reliable structural integrity.

Contribution

It introduces a detailed design and mechanical analysis of a 1-ton neutrino detector prototype, validating its safety and structural stability for future large-scale experiments.

Findings

Maximum stresses are below material strength limits.

Structural stability and safety are confirmed.

Design procedures ensure prototype reliability.

Abstract

The Jinping Neutrino Experiment will perform an in-depth research on solar neutrinos and geo-neutrinos. Two structural options (i.e., cylindrical and spherical schemes) are proposed for the Jinping detector based on other successful underground neutrino detectors. Several key factors in the design are also discussed in detail. A 1-ton prototype of the Jinping experiment is proposed based on physics requirements. Subsequently, the structural design, installation procedure, and mechanical analysis of the neutrino detector prototype are discussed. The results show that the maximum Mises stresses on the acrylic vessel, stainless steel truss, and the tank are all lower than the design values of the strengths. The stability requirement of the stainless steel truss in the detector prototype is satisfied. Consequently, the structural scheme for the 1-ton prototype is safe and reliable.