Study on Neutron-induced Background in the CRESST Experiment

TL;DR

This paper investigates neutron-induced backgrounds in the CRESST II experiment for dark matter detection, using simulations to identify sources and mitigation strategies to improve sensitivity.

Contribution

It provides a detailed analysis of neutron backgrounds from various origins and proposes measures to reduce their impact on WIMP search sensitivity.

Findings

Neutrons from different sources significantly affect background levels.

Monte Carlo simulations identify key neutron origins impacting CRESST.

Specific mitigation strategies are recommended to enhance experiment sensitivity.

Abstract

CRESST II is an experiment for direct WIMP search, using cryogenic detectors. The ratio of the two signals (temperature rise and scintillation light) measured for each interaction is an excellent parameter for discrimination of radioactive background. The main remaining background is the neutron flux present at the experimental site, since neutrons produce the same signals as WIMPs do. Based on Monte Carlo simulations the present work shows how neutrons from different origins affect CRESST and which measures have to be taken into account to reach the goal sensitivity.