Air-transfer production method for large-area picosecond photodetectors

Area of Science:

• Physics
• Engineering
• Materials Science

Background:

• Micro-channel-plate photomultipliers (MCP-PMTs) are crucial for detecting faint light signals.
• Scaling MCP-PMT production to large areas presents significant manufacturing challenges.

Purpose of the Study:

• To design and prototype batch production processes for large-area MCP-PMTs.
• To address challenges in packaging, signal readout, and hermetic sealing for large-area devices.
• To develop a facility capable of multi-module batch production with in-situ optimization.

Main Methods:

• Utilized an "air-transfer" assembly process adapted from single Large-Area Picosecond Photodetector (LAPPD™) modules.
• Developed robust packaging solutions for high-density electrical signal transmission (pad or strip readout).
• Implemented photocathode synthesis in a large-area, low-aspect-ratio volume and verified MCP functionality post-synthesis.

Main Results:

• Successfully prototyped batch production steps for large-area MCP-PMTs.
• Addressed challenges in hermetic sealing of large-perimeter window-body interfaces.
• Demonstrated photocathode synthesis without compromising MCP functionality.

Conclusions:

• The developed process steps and facility design enable scalable, batch production of large-area MCP-PMTs.
• The facility allows for pre-seal testing, leak-checking, and real-time photocathode optimization.
• This work paves the way for efficient manufacturing of advanced photodetectors.