Coherent elastic neutrino-nucleus scattering with the $\nu$BDX-DRIFT directional detector at next generation neutrino facilities

TL;DR

This paper explores the potential of the $ u$BDX-DRIFT directional detector at next-generation neutrino facilities for measuring coherent elastic neutrino-nucleus scattering, probing the standard model, and searching for new physics.

Contribution

It introduces the $ u$BDX-DRIFT detector's capabilities for CE$ u$NS measurements and BSM physics searches using various gaseous targets at future neutrino facilities.

Findings

Estimated CE$ u$NS signals for different gases.

Projected sensitivity to the weak mixing angle.

Potential to detect neutrino non-standard interactions.

Abstract

We discuss various aspects of a neutrino physics program that can be carried out with the neutrino Beam-Dump eXperiment DRIFT ($\nu$BDX-DRIFT) detector using neutrino beams produced in next generation neutrino facilities. $\nu$BDX-DRIFT is a directional low-pressure TPC detector suitable for measurements of coherent elastic neutrino-nucleus scattering (CE$\nu$NS) using a variety of gaseous target materials which include carbon disulfide, carbon tetrafluoride and tetraethyllead, among others. The neutrino physics program includes standard model (SM) measurements and beyond the standard model (BSM) physics searches. Focusing on the Long Baseline Neutrino Facility (LBNF) beamline at Fermilab, we first discuss basic features of the detector and estimate backgrounds, including beam-induced neutron backgrounds. We then quantify the CE$\nu$NS signal in the different target materials and study the sensitivity of $\nu$BDX-DRIFT to measurements of the weak mixing angle and neutron density distributions. We consider as well prospects for new physics searches, in particular sensitivities to effective neutrino non-standard interactions.