arXiv subjects

A. Heindel

Publications and source records attributed to A. Heindel.

3 recordsLinked to original sources

arXiv2026

Characterization of UV optical components for photon detector calibration in liquid argon TPCs

Large liquid argon time projection chambers (LArTPCs) require stable and well-characterized delivery of ultraviolet (UV) light for in situ calibration of photosensors at cryogenic temperatures. This article reports bench-top and cryogenic measurements of the optical components used in a UV light calibration system, including multi-mode fused-silica fibers, SMA-to-SMA connectors, optical fiber feedthroughs, and light-diffuser assemblies. Light loss in several fiber types and SMA connectors was measured across wavelengths from \qtyrange{275}{970}{nm}. In addition, light-loss measurements of the tested fibers after several liquid-nitrogen thermal cycles showed no statistically significant degradation relative to baseline measurements, and high-rate pulsed exposure (30-90 million pulses from a \qty{275}{nm} LED) likewise showed no measurable aging in jacketed fibers. A compact, palm-sized, 3D-printed PEEK diffuser housing with stacked UV-grade fused-silica diffusers yields Lambertian emission and the most uniform angular distribution. Optical components exhibiting improved UV transmission were deployed successfully in multiple DUNE small- and large-scale prototypes, demonstrating reliable operation of UV light calibration systems. These findings inform component selection and calibration procedures for achieving reliable, uniform UV light delivery in large-scale cryogenic detectors such as DUNE.

physics.ins-det↗

arXiv2025

Modeling Light Signals Using Data from the First Pulsed Neutron Source Program at the DUNE Vertical Drift ColdBox Test Facility at CERN Neutrino Platform

In this paper, we present a first quantitative test of detected light signals produced in a pulsed neutron source run in a small vertical drift LArTPC at the CERN neutrino platform ColdBox test facility. The ColdBox cryostat, detectors, neutron sources, and particle interactions are modeled and simulated using Fluka. A good agreement is found in the detected number of photoelectrons, with values below 650 photoelectrons in both data and simulation, for all four X-ARAPUCA photodetectors on the cathode in the LArTPC. A time constant is also fitted from the neutron-beam-off light signal spectrum and found consistent between data and MC. Several important systematic effects are discussed and serve as guides for future runs at larger LArTPCs.

hep-ex↗

arXiv2024

Characterization and Novel Application of Power Over Fiber for Electronics in a Harsh Environment

Power-over-Fiber (PoF) technology has been used extensively in settings where high voltages require isolation from ground. In a novel application of PoF, power is provided to photon detector modules located on a surface at $\sim$ 300 kV with respect to ground in the planned DUNE experiment. In cryogenic environments, PoF offers a reliable means of power transmission, leveraging optical fibers to transfer power with minimal system degradation. PoF technology excels in maintaining low noise levels when delivering power to sensitive electronic systems operating in extreme temperatures and high voltage environments. This paper presents the R$\&$D effort of PoF in extreme conditions and underscores its capacity to revolutionize power delivery and management in critical applications, offering a dependable solution with low noise, optimal efficiency, and superior isolation.

physics.ins-det↗