New optics for resolution improving of Ring Imaging Cherenkov detectors

Abstract

The Ring Imaging Cherenkov detector (RICH) of the COMPASS experiment at CERN is key tool for particle identification. Two reflecting spherical mirror surfaces, covering a total area of about 21 m2 hosted in the radiator vessel, provide Cherenkov radiation focusing to photon detectors. These ones are based on the use of multi-anode photo-multiplier tubes. They are coupled to individual lens telescopes, made from special fused silica aspherical lenses. Design, construction, and Hartmann test of lenses qualities and alignment were described. The RICH detector uses C4F10 as radiator gas. The refractive index of the radiator gas is substantial parameter. It varies with temperature, atmospheric pressure and gas purity. Its accurate knowledge is essential for the particle identification performance. A modified Jamin’s interferometer was proposed, constructed and tested to allow on-line refractive index measurement with accuracy better than 10-6 The new types of fused silica Cherenkov radiators was designed to the tests of electron multiplier detector too.