In this short seminar, I will review in details some technical aspects of new detector concepts
I have recently introduced at NSCL/FRIB. This includes:
1) The parallel-plate avalanche counter with optical readout (O-PPAC).
Instead of conventional method based on charge readout, the particle localization in O-PPAC
detector is achieved by recording the electroluminescence light; this lead to high signal-to-noise
ratio, high dynamic range and better spatial resolution compared to the conventional
PPAC. I will give an overview of the operational principle of the O-PPAC, a performance
evaluation through a systematic Monte-Carlo simulation study, and recent results obtained
with a first prototype. I will discuss also future development in the field of fast-neutron
imaging spectroscopy applications.
2) The Multi-layer THGEM.
The M-THGEM is a novel hole-type gaseous electron multiplier structure produced by multilayer
printed circuit board technology. I will discuss main operational properties of MTHGEM-based
detectors (e.g. maximum achievable gain, long-term stability, ion-feedback
suppression, energy resolution, etc.); advantages and disadvantages over conventional cascade
hole-type multipliers (i.e. GEM/THGEM); current and future applications. The latter include
position-sensitive charge readout in the vapor phase of a double-phase liquid-noble gas
(Ar/Xe) TPC, for dark matter search, neutrinoless double-beta decay, neutrino physics, fast neutron detection etc.
I will conclude the seminar with some remarks and a general overview of plans and projects
focused on radiation detector development for next generation of high-energy physics
experiments and beyond.