Evaluation of new large area PMT with high quantum efficiency

The neutrino detector of the Jiangmen Underground Neutrino Observatory（JUNO） is designed to use20 kilotons of liquid scintillator and approximately 16000 20 inch photomultipliers（PMTs）.One of the options is to use the 20 inch R12860 PMT with high quantum efficiency which has recently been developed by Hamamatsu Photonics.The performance of the newly developed PMT preproduction samples is evaluated.The results show that its quantum efficiency is 30%at 400 nm.Its Peak/Valley（P/V） ratio for the single photoelectron is 4.75 and the dark count rate is 27 kHz at the threshold of 3 mV while the gain is at 1 × 10^7.The transit time spread of a single photoelectron is 2.86 ns.Generally the performances of this new 20 inch PMT are improved over the old one of R3600.

Modeling minimum detectable activity as a function of detector speed

Purpose A radiation detector’s sensitivity is important when designing survey plans.A measure of sensitivity is minimum detectable activity(MDA)which is the lowest amount of activity required for a signal to be distinguished above background.It has been known for some time that the efficiency of a moving detector can be improved by slowing the speed of travel.The Multi-Agency Radiation Survey and Site Investigation Manual describes but does not quantify this effect.Decreased efficiency at higher speeds results in higher MDAs and thus less sensitive detectors.The purpose of this research is to specifically define the relationship between detector MDA and speed.Methods Python was employed to calculate solid angle from equations developed by Masket and MCNP6.1 simulations were used to determine detection efficiency for a moving detector.Using these results efficiency as a function of detector travel speed was fit to a modified four-parameter logistic function(M4PL).Results The result of this work is a well defined relationship that can be used to predict MDA as a function of speed.The relationship can also be used by operators to determine the optimum speed needed to meet a predefined MDA.Conclusion Understanding this relationship between detector speed and efficiency will improve detector performance in remediation efforts and national security search operations.The M4PL function developed in this research allows optimizing remediation and wide-area radiation survey activities by setting maximum survey speed to meet a predetermined MDA.