Proton Bragg curve and energy reconstruction using an online scintillator stack detector

Area of Science:

• Plasma Physics
• Particle Accelerators
• Detector Technology

Background:

• Real-time characterization of laser-driven proton beams is essential for high-repetition-rate laser acceleration.
• Conventional diagnostics like radiochromic film (RCF) lack real-time capabilities due to lengthy post-processing.

Purpose of the Study:

• To introduce a compact, scalable, and cost-effective scintillator-based detector for real-time proton beam measurements.
• To develop an advanced signal processing technique for accurate proton energy and depth-dose deposition unfolding.

Main Methods:

• Utilized scintillator-based detection for fast response across various dose rates.
• Implemented Monte Carlo simulations to refine signal processing and account for the quenching effect (Birks' law).
• Validated the detector against a standard RCF stack in experiments with protons up to 35 MeV.

Main Results:

• Demonstrated excellent agreement between the scintillator detector and RCF measurements.
• Successfully unfolded proton energy and depth-dose deposition curves with high accuracy.
• The device proved effective in a proof-of-principle experiment at a conventional cyclotron.

Conclusions:

• The developed scintillator detector provides a viable real-time alternative for proton beam characterization.
• This technology is suitable for both conventional and emerging laser-driven accelerator environments.
• The compact and cost-effective design promotes broader adoption in experimental setups.