Results from a Prototype Combination TPC Cherenkov Detector with GEM Readout

TL;DR

This paper presents a prototype combined TPC-Cherenkov detector tested at Fermilab, demonstrating its ability to measure particle tracks and identify particles using Cherenkov light in a compact, windowless design with CF4 gas.

Contribution

It introduces a novel combined TPC-Cherenkov detector with integrated readout and demonstrates its particle identification capabilities in a prototype setup.

Findings

Successful track reconstruction demonstrated

Effective particle identification achieved

Prototype operated efficiently with CF4 gas

Abstract

A combination Time Projection Chamber-Cherenkov prototype detector has been developed as part of the Detector R&D Program for a future Electron Ion Collider. The prototype was tested at the Fermilab test beam facility to provide a proof of principle to demonstrate that the detector is able to measure particle tracks and provide particle identification information within a common detector volume. The TPC portion consists of a 10x10x10cm3 field cage, which delivers charge from tracks to a 10x10cm2 quadruple GEM readout. Tracks are reconstructed by interpolating the hit position of clusters on an array of 2x10mm2 zigzag pads The Cherenkov component consists of a 10x10cm2 readout plane segmented into 3x3 square pads, also coupled to a quadruple GEM. As tracks pass though the drift volume of the TPC, the generated Cherenkov light is able to escape through sparsely arranged wires making up one side of the field cage, facing the CsI photocathode of the Cherenkov detector. The Cherenkov detector is thus operated in a windowless, proximity focused configuration for high efficiency. Pure CF4 is used as the working gas for both detector components, mainly due to its transparency into the deep UV, as well as its high N0. Results from the beam test, as well as results on its particle id capabilities will be discussed.