Scintillation light detection in the 6-m drift-length ProtoDUNE Dual Phase liquid argon TPC

Area of Science:

• Particle Physics
• Experimental Physics
• Neutrino Physics

Background:

• The Deep Underground Neutrino Experiment (DUNE) requires advanced detectors for long-baseline neutrino oscillation studies.
• Liquid argon time-projection chambers (LArTPCs) are crucial for DUNE's Far Detector, utilizing ionization and scintillation light.
• Scintillation light in LArTPCs offers precise timing and improved calorimetry, essential for event triggering and reconstruction.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate the performance of the ProtoDUNE Dual Phase (DP) photon detection system.
• To investigate the impact of different wavelength shifters (PEN, TPB) and xenon-doped liquid argon on light collection.
• To analyze scintillation light production and propagation, comparing simulation with experimental data for LArTPCs.

Main Methods:

• Utilized a 6x6x6 m³ liquid argon time-projection chamber (LArTPC) at the CERN Neutrino Platform.
• Collected cosmic-muon data to study scintillation and electroluminescence light signals.
• Employed photomultiplier tubes to detect light signals from ionizing tracks up to 7 meters away.
• Analyzed data with varying wavelength shifters and xenon doping concentrations.

Main Results:

• The performance of the ProtoDUNE-DP photon detection system was assessed, focusing on light collection efficiency.
• Different wavelength shifters and xenon doping were evaluated for their effectiveness in enhancing light signals.
• Scintillation light production and propagation processes were analyzed, with comparisons drawn between simulation and collected data.

Conclusions:

• The study provides valuable insights into the performance of photon detection systems in large LArTPCs.
• Understanding liquid argon properties and optimizing light collection are critical for the success of DUNE and future neutrino experiments.
• The findings contribute to the improved design and operation of giant LArTPCs for neutrino physics and beyond.