First sub-modules of NeuLAND tested

23.11.2012 | 

In November 2012 the first 150 sub-modules of NeuLAND (new Large-Area Neutron Detector), the next-generation neutron detector designed for R³B, were exposed to fast “mono-energetic” neutrons stemming from quasi-free breakup reactions of deuterons on a CH₂ target in Cave C at GSI. The collected data sets on neutrons of 200 to 1500 MeV will serve to determine the efficiency and the time resolution of the NeuLAND bar test array (see photographs).

At the beginning of October 2012 an assembly of 100 NeuLAND bars had been built (see figure 1). The bars have been tested using cosmic rays, and in best cases a time resolution of σ≈130 ps has been reached. Mid of October additional 50 bars had been added to the NeuLAND test array. The whole array with its TacQuila readout electronics then moved to Cave C (see figure 2) in a position behind the dipole magnet ALADIN in order to be tested with fast neutrons (experiment S406). While the results on neutron response demand a careful offline analysis, on which we will report later, the online analysis of primary deuterons hitting the NeuLAND array results in a promising time resolution of σ ≈115 ps.