Paper | Title | Page |
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TUPB27 | Feasibility Study of an Optical Fibre Sensor for Beam Loss Detection Based on a SPAD Array | 228 |
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This contribution describes an optical fibre sensor based on the use of a silicon photomultiplier (SiPM) composed of an array of Single Photon Avalanche Detectors (SPADs). This sensor will be used for the detection and localization of particle losses in accelerators by exploiting the Cerenkov Effect in optical fibres. As compared to conventional vacuum photomultipliers, the SPAD array allows for maximizing the geometrical efficiency of Cerenkov photon detection. The array can be directly integrated into the fibre end while retaining the same quantum efficiency (20%) in the wavelength range of interest. The SiPM is intrinsically very fast due to its small depletion region and extremely short Geiger-type discharge, which is in the order of a few hundreds of picoseconds. Therefore, the combined use of optical fibres and SiPMs seems a promising option for a modern Cherenkov detector featuring subnanosecond timing, insensitive to magnetic fields, capable of single photon detection and allowing for the possibility of realization in the form of a smart structure. We present the layout and operating principle of the detector, its characteristics, and outline possible fields of application. |