Predicting hadron-specific damage from fast hadrons in crystals for calorimetry

TL;DR

This paper demonstrates that simulations using FLUKA can accurately predict hadron-induced damage in crystal materials like Lead Tungstate, LYSO, and Cerium Fluoride, aiding in the selection of suitable calorimeter materials for high-fluence environments.

Contribution

It introduces a validated simulation approach to predict hadron-specific damage in calorimeter crystals, improving material selection for high-energy physics experiments.

Findings

Simulation results agree well with experimental data

Damage amplitude can be predicted with sufficient precision

FLUKA simulations effectively model fission track formation in crystals

Abstract

Fast hadrons have been observed to cause a cumulative damage in Lead Tungstate and LYSO crystals. The underlying mechanism has been proven to be the creation of fission tracks, which act as scattering centres, thus reducing the light collection efficiency. For calorimetry applications in an environment where large, fast hadron fluences are anticipated, predictions about damage in crystals are of great importance for making an informed choice of technology. In the study presented here, simulations using the FLUKA package have been performed on Lead Tungstate, LYSO and Cerium Fluoride, and their results have been compared with measurements. The agreement that is found between simulation results and experimental measurements allows to conclude that the damage amplitude in a given material can be predicted with a precision that is sufficient to anticipate the damage expected during detector operation.