Speaker
Description
Wavelength-shifting (WLS) materials offer a scalable and affordable
approach to large-area photon detection. They absorb ultraviolet photons
and re-emit them at longer wavelengths, enabling efficient light
trapping by total internal reflection.
We present a compact detector module based on WLS tiles coupled to
silicon photomultipliers (SiPMs). The design exploits the geometry of
elongated photodetectors placed along the tile edges to maximize photon
collection without requiring large sensor surfaces. Particular attention
was given to matching the spectral response of the WLS material and the
SiPMs to the Cherenkov emission peak, as well as optimizing the decay
time for fast timing performance. A dedicated readout system preserves
timing resolution in high-rate environments.
Laboratory tests with a pulsed UV laser demonstrate that the module
achieves adequate timing resolution and detection efficiency, consistent
with its cost-effective design. While the absolute efficiency is lower
than conventional solutions, the modularity and scalability of the
system enable enhanced spatial resolution and robust
signal-to-background discrimination when deployed in arrays.
This concept combines mechanical simplicity, timing capability, and low
cost, making it a promising building block for next-generation
large-area photon detectors in neutrino and cosmic-ray, gamma-ray
experiments, as well as medical and industrial applications.
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