Multiple-cell cavity design for high mass axion searches: an in-depth study

TL;DR

This paper explores a novel multiple-cell cavity design to enhance high-mass axion searches, addressing volume limitations of traditional cavities and demonstrating its potential advantages for detecting axions in the GHz to THz range.

Contribution

It provides an in-depth characterization of the multiple-cell cavity design, highlighting its benefits for high-mass axion detection beyond conventional single-cell cavities.

Findings

Successful demonstration of the multiple-cell cavity concept

Enhanced cavity volume for high-frequency axion searches

Potential for improved sensitivity in microwave axion detection

Abstract

The invisible axion is a well-motivated hypothetical particle which could address two fundamental questions in modern physics - the CP symmetry problem in the strong interactions and the dark matter mystery of our universe. The plausible mass (frequency) range of the QCD axion as a dark matter candidate spans from ueV to meV (O(GHz) to O(THz)). The axion haloscope using a resonant cavity has provided the most sensitive search method in the microwave region. However, experimental searches have been limited to relatively low mass regions mainly due to the reduced cavity volume at high masses. As an effective approach for high-mass axion searches, a unique cavity design, featured by multiple identical cells divided by equidistant thin metal partitions in a single cylindrical cavity, was proposed and successfully demonstrated. We perform an in-depth study to characterize the multiple-cell cavity design and discuss the various advantages it offers for high-mass axion searches.