CR-39 track detector for multi-MeV ion spectroscopy.

Area of Science:

• Nuclear Physics and Materials Science
• Particle Detection and Characterization

Background:

• CR-39 plastic is a widely used detector for charged particles.
• Understanding track formation mechanisms is crucial for accurate particle identification and energy measurement.

Purpose of the Study:

• To characterize particle track formation on CR-39 surfaces using laser-driven protons and carbon ions.
• To propose a novel methodological approach for unique particle track characterization.
• To investigate the energy-dependent response of CR-39 to ions.

Main Methods:

• Utilized laser-driven protons and carbon ions to irradiate CR-39 detectors.
• Employed a bulk etch length-based methodology for track characterization.
• Analyzed energy-dependent track diameter growth rates.
• Performed simulations and experiments to observe range straggling.

Main Results:

• Developed a unique method to characterize particle tracks in CR-39.
• Observed significant non-uniformity in track diameter when CR-39 thickness matched particle stopping range.
• Demonstrated imprint of longitudinal range straggling for energetic protons.
• Achieved an energy resolution (δE/E) of approximately 3% for MeV protons and carbon ions.

Conclusions:

• The proposed bulk etch length method provides a robust way to compare track characteristics across experiments.
• CR-39 exhibits energy-dependent track diameter growth, offering insights into particle stopping processes.
• The study confirms range straggling effects and demonstrates CR-39's capability for precise energy resolution in the MeV range.