On the possibility of positive-ion detection in gaseous TPCs and its potential use for neutrinoless double beta decay searches in Xe-136

TL;DR

This paper explores a novel method for detecting positive ions in gaseous TPCs, specifically in high-pressure xenon, to improve neutrinoless double beta decay searches by reconstructing event topology without losing energy resolution.

Contribution

It proposes using secondary electron emission from positive ions on solid surfaces as a new detection technique in gaseous TPCs for neutrinoless double beta decay.

Findings

Potential for high-accuracy event topology reconstruction

Identification of candidate secondary electron emitters

Discussion of efficiencies and challenges

Abstract

The neutralization of slow positive ions on solid surfaces can lead to the emission of secondary electrons in Auger-type processes. We discuss the possibility of harnessing such mechanisms to the detection of positive ions in gaseous TPCs. Applied to high pressure xenon, the proposed idea may enable reconstructing with high accuracy the topology of candidate neutrinoless double beta decay events of Xe-136 without sacrificing the energy resolution of pure Xe gas. Candidate secondary electron emitters are discussed, as well as the expected efficiencies, challenges and potential pitfalls.