ArCLight - a Compact Dielectric Large-Area Photon Detector

TL;DR

ArCLight is a new large-area dielectric photon detector designed for efficient scintillation light detection in large-volume particle detectors, offering a compact and electrically compatible alternative to traditional PMTs.

Contribution

The paper introduces ArCLight, a novel dielectric large-area photon detector with a compact design suitable for high electric field environments, potentially replacing vacuum PMTs in certain applications.

Findings

Photon Detection Efficiency of 0.8% to 2.2% in prototype

Suitable for large-volume detectors like LArTPCs

Can operate inside high electric field volumes

Abstract

ArCLight is a novel device for detecting scintillation light over large areas with Photon Detection Efficiency (PDE) of the order of a few percent. Its robust technological design allows for efficient use in large-volume particle detectors, such as Liquid Argon Time Projection Chambers (LArTPCs) or liquid scintillator detectors. Due to its dielectric structure it can be placed inside volumes with high electric field. It could potentially replace vacuum PhotoMultiplier Tubes (PMTs) in applications where high PDE is not required. The photon detection efficiency for a 10x10cm2 detector prototype was measured to be in the range of 0.8% to 2.2% across the active area.