Low-background applications of MICROMEGAS detector technology

TL;DR

This paper explores the use of MICROMEGAS detectors, originally designed for accelerators, for low-background astroparticle and neutrino physics, highlighting their advantages and potential applications.

Contribution

It introduces the concept of adapting MICROMEGAS detectors for low-background, astroparticle physics, emphasizing their features and potential for new experimental applications.

Findings

Suitable for neutrino-nucleus coherent scattering measurement

Potential for WIMP detection with directional sensitivity

Advantages include low energy threshold and radioclean construction

Abstract

The MICROMEGAS detector concept, generally optimized for use in accelerator experiments, displays a peculiar combination of features that can be advantageous in several astroparticle and neutrino physics applications. Their sub-keV ionization energy threshold, excellent energy and space resolution, and a simplicity of design that allows the use of radioclean materials in their construction are some of these characteristics. We envision tackling experimental challenges such as the measurement of neutral-current neutrino-nucleus coherent scattering or Weakly Interacting Massive Particle (WIMP) detectors with directional sensitivity. The large physics potential of a compact (total volume O(1)m$^{3}$), multi-purpose array of low-background MICROMEGAS is made evident.