Characterization of Micropattern Gas Detectors and their Imaging Application

Abstract

Micropattern gas detectors have played a key role in nuclear and particle physics. Among the various types of detectors, one has been widely developed and used in the most diverse areas, including medical and industrial applications. This is the Gas Electron Multiplier (GEM). The European Center for Nuclear Research (CERN) was the sole supplier of GEM sheets until recently, when a few other companies started manufacturing these detectors.There is an initiative to produce this type of detector locally in Brazil with the technology and specialized services available. This study is being carried out by researchers from HEPIC (High Energy Physics and Instrumentation Center), which is an IFUSP laboratory that is part of the group of laboratories around the world that maintains ALICE at the LHC.Therefore, evaluating the quality of the detectors is fundamental. That is, it is important to establish a standard procedure for the characterization of these detectors, carrying out their optical evaluation (uniformity of holes), electrical (capacitance, leakage current, discharges, etc.) and their performance (response, gain, uniformity and stability). As well as a basic feasibility study procedure to use them for imaging, thinking about future applications. This Scientific Initiation project will allow the student a first contact with this class of detectors and their possible uses.