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Energy response characterization of current-mode MeV Cherenkov aerogel detectors
K D Meaney1, K Yates2, C Young1
1Los Alamos National Laboratory, Los Alamos, New Mexico 87545, USA.
The Review of Scientific Instruments
|June 5, 2026
Summary
Cherenkov aerogel detectors offer an alternative to gas systems for MeV radiographic x-ray sources. Simulations require incorporating aerogel density variations to accurately match experimental data.
Area of Science:
- Physics
- Materials Science
Background:
- Current-mode Cherenkov aerogel detectors are explored as replacements for gas Cherenkov systems.
- Accurate simulation of aerogel detector response is challenging due to their complex structure.
Purpose of the Study:
- To calibrate the relative energy response of various aerogels using electron beam data.
- To improve the accuracy of aerogel detector simulations by accounting for structural complexities.
Main Methods:
- Utilized data from electron beam sources at three different sites.
- Calibrated the energy response of 15 aerogels with densities ranging from 10 to 430 mg/cm³.
- Investigated incident electron energies from 1 to 12 MeV.
Main Results:
- Experimental data were used to calibrate the relative energy response of the aerogels.
- A significant discrepancy was observed between simulations and experimental data.
- The study highlights the need to include density variations in detector simulations.
Conclusions:
- Aerogel detectors show promise for MeV radiographic x-ray source measurements.
- Accurate modeling of aerogel detectors necessitates the inclusion of density variations in simulations.
- Further refinement of simulation models is crucial for reliable aerogel detector performance prediction.
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