Sub-millimeter resolution SiPM-based neutron anger camera

Thermal and cold neutron beamlines require detector systems that have a high neutron efficiency, large active area, and good spatial resolution. One type of detector that has been implemented at beamlines at the Spallation Neutron Source (SNS) is a scintillator-based Anger camera that utilizes photomultiplier tubes (PMTs) as photodetectors. In this work, we present a new Anger camera design that replaces PMTs with silicon photo -multipliers (SiPMs). This new design offers better resolution, less distortion, and more compactness than the previous cameras. A camera with active area of-100 cm(2) was shown to have a spatial resolution better than 0.5 mm. Additionally, the use of SiPMs allows for use in strong magnetic fields, opening the possibility of additional experimental capabilities. A prototype has been built that demonstrates vacuum-compatibility, as required for a proposed beamline for the Second Target Station at SNS.

Automated summary

Thermal and cold neutron beamlines require detector systems with high efficiency, large active area, and good spatial resolution. This study presents a new design of Anger camera using silicon photomultipliers (SiPMs) instead of photomultiplier tubes (PMTs), offering better resolution, less distortion, and more compactness. The use of SiPMs also enables the camera to be used in strong magnetic fields, providing additional experimental capabilities.