Observation of Fine Structure in Channeling of Particles in Bent Crystals

TL;DR

This paper reports the observation of fine angular structures in particle channeling within bent crystals, supported by a model, with implications for high-energy beam manipulation.

Contribution

It introduces a compact analytical model and a design criterion for crystals to optimize beam manipulation at various energies.

Findings

Fine structure observed in angular distribution of channeled particles

Model accurately reproduces experimental measurements

Criterion established for designing crystals with reduced angular spread

Abstract

We observed highly efficient manipulation of the 530 MeV positron beam at Mainz Microtron via bent crystals. The low beam divergence revealed a fine structure in the angular distribution of channeled particles. A compact analytical model, supported by Monte Carlo including multiple scattering, accounts for the measurements. We established a criterion for designing a crystal with reduced angular spread of channeled particles for beam manipulation at any energy. This finding is particularly useful in view of applications of channeling to the highest energies.