High-pressure xenon electroluminescence detectors

摘要

We have investigated electroluminescence (EL) detectors with uniform and axial electric field configurations, filled with xenon gas pressurized up to 35 bar. Photomultipliers placed outside pressurized vessels and avalanche photodiodes placed directly inside the pressurized xenon have been used to detect scintillation and electroluminescence signals. A light-collection system based on a cylindrical array of wavelength shifting fibers has been used to collect light in the detector with axial electric field. The EL detectors with photomultiplier readout have demonstrated exceptionally low sensitivity to vibrations. An energy resolution of 10% FWHM was measured for 60 keV gamma rays. The results are discussed and measures that will be undertaken to improve performance of the detectors are considered.