Performance of the CMS Zero Degree Calorimeters in pPb collisions at the LHC

TL;DR

This paper evaluates the performance of CMS Zero Degree Calorimeters in pPb collisions at the LHC, focusing on detector response, calibration, and signal extraction methods using simulations and data analysis techniques.

Contribution

It introduces a new calibration procedure and a deconvolution technique for overlapping events, enhancing the accuracy of neutral particle detection in high-energy collisions.

Findings

Effective calibration method developed

Deconvolution technique improves event separation

Simulation-based response analysis validated

Abstract

The two Zero Degree Calorimeters (ZDCs) of the CMS experiment are located at $\pm 140~$m from the collision point and detect neutral particles in the $|\eta| > 8.3$ pseudorapidity region. This paper presents a study on the performance of the ZDC in the 2016 pPb run. The response of the detectors to ultrarelativistic neutrons is studied using in-depth Monte Carlo simulations. A method of signal extraction based on template fits is presented, along with a dedicated calibration procedure. A deconvolution technique for the correction of overlapping collision events is discussed.