Electrostatic deflector studies using small-scale prototype electrodes.

Area of Science:

• Particle Physics
• Accelerator Technology
• Electromagnetism

Background:

• Detecting electric dipole moments (EDMs) in particles is crucial for understanding fundamental physics.
• Storage rings require specialized electrostatic deflector elements for EDM searches.
• The JEDI (Juelich Electric Dipole moment Investigations) prototype ring uses over 50 electric deflectors.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate the electric field performance of scaled-down prototype electrostatic deflector electrodes.
• To determine the relationship between electrode gap distance and achievable electric field strength.
• To inform the design of future electrostatic deflectors for particle EDM experiments.

Main Methods:

• Studied scaled-down, uncoated stainless steel electrodes with a 10 mm radius.
• Varied electrode gap distances from 1 mm down to 0.05 mm.
• Measured the electric field strength at different gap distances.

Main Results:

• Electric field strength increased significantly with decreasing electrode gap distance.
• Achieved electric fields ranged from 15 MV m^-1 at 1 mm gap to 90 MV m^-1 at 0.05 mm gap.
• Demonstrated the potential for high electric fields in compact deflector designs.

Conclusions:

• Smaller electrode gaps enable significantly higher electric fields, vital for enhancing sensitivity in EDM searches.
• These findings support the feasibility of using scaled-down deflectors in future particle storage ring designs.
• Further research will explore various materials, coatings, and larger deflector elements.