An ultrafast plenoptic-camera system for high-resolution 3D particle tracking in unsegmented scintillators

Area of Science:

• Physics
• Particle Detection
• Imaging Technology

Background:

• Dense, massive active materials are crucial for neutrino, particle calorimeter, and dark matter detectors.
• Fine segmentation in detectors improves 3D tracking but increases construction complexity, channel count, and cost.
• Existing methods face challenges in achieving high-resolution 3D imaging in large, unsegmented volumes.

Purpose of the Study:

• To propose an alternative approach for elementary particle detection enabling ultrafast, 3D high-resolution imaging in unsegmented scintillators.
• To demonstrate the feasibility of reconstructing single photon origins within a scintillator using novel imaging technologies.
• To showcase the potential for cost reduction and enhanced capabilities in particle detection systems.

Main Methods:

• Utilizing plenoptic systems (plenoptic cameras) for light field capture.
• Employing time-resolving single-photon avalanche diode array imaging sensors.
• Reconstructing the origin of single photons within a scintillator volume.

Main Results:

• Successful reconstruction of single photon origins in unsegmented scintillator material.
• Demonstrated full event reconstruction for neutrino detection with a spatial resolution of 200 micrometres.
• Validation of the proposed method for high-resolution 3D imaging in large detector volumes.

Conclusions:

• The proposed method offers a viable alternative to traditional segmented detectors, enabling high-resolution 3D imaging in large unsegmented scintillators.
• This technology paves the way for a new class of cost-effective and capable particle detectors.
• Future developments can expand applications to Cherenkov light detection, medical imaging, and neutron detection.