arXiv subjects

Sebastian Kempf

Publications and source records attributed to Sebastian Kempf.

At least 19 recordsLinked to original sources

arXiv2026

Measurements of absolute gamma-ray energies using an ultra-high energy resolution magnetic microcalorimeter

We present new measurements of 27 gamma ray energies ranging from 14 keV to 136 keV, obtained using high-energy-resolution magnetic microcalorimeters for energy-dispersive spectrometry. The spectrometer has eight pixels and achieves an energy resolution between 15 and 30 eV across the entire energy range. It faces a cryogenic source sampler with four movable sources. Each source contains a mixture of radionuclides, including Yb-169 and Co-57 used to calibrate the spectrometer and correct its non-linearity. The gamma-ray energies, emitted through the decay of Co-57, Cd-109, Ba-133, Gd-153, Eu-154, Eu-155, Yb-169, Tm-170, Pb-210, Np-239, Am-241 and Am-243, have been reassessed. The lowest absolute uncertainty achieved is 0.13 eV at 105.3 keV, which corresponds to a relative uncertainty of 1.3 ppm. Of the 27 measured gamma rays, the uncertainties of 19 energies were improved with respect to the available literature: 10 by a factor of 5 and 4 by more than one order of magnitude. Good agreement is observed with energies obtained elsewhere by wavelength-dispersive spectrometry. This work significantly improves upon previously reported gamma energies obtained by energy-dispersive spectrometry using semiconductor detectors, thanks to the ultra-high energy resolution of magnetic microcalorimeters.

physics.ins-det↗

arXiv2026

Mutual Inductance Sensing SQUID: Cryogenic microcalorimeter based on mutual inductance readout of superconducting temperature sensors

Superconducting microcalorimeters, such as superconducting transition-edge sensors and magnetic microcalorimeters, have emerged as state-of-the-art detectors for X-ray emission spectroscopy by combining near-unity quantum efficiency with excellent energy resolution. Despite these achievements, their resolving power has not yet reached the level required to rival modern wavelength-dispersive grating or crystal spectrometers. Here, we introduce a next-generation SQUID-based microcalorimeter concept that exploits the strong temperature dependence of the magnetic penetration depth of a superconductor operated close to its critical temperature. The resulting mutual-inductance-based readout enables in situ tunable signal amplification, while inherently avoiding hysteretic effects that commonly limit superconducting sensors. Experiments with prototype devices demonstrate robust and reproducible operation over a wide temperature range. Based on our measurements and modeling, we project that, using an optimized absorber-sensor combination, an energy resolution below 100meV (FWHM) should be achievable for soft X-ray photons with energies below 800eV. This approach therefore represents a promising pathway towards next-generation cryogenic detectors for high-precision X-ray emission spectroscopy.

physics.ins-det↗

arXiv2025

Advanced microwave SQUID multiplexer model incorporating readout power effects and Josephson junction inhomogeneities

We present an advanced model for describing the readout power dependence of the resonance characteristics of a microwave SQUID multiplexer. Our model proves valid for SQUID screening parameters up to $\beta_\mathrm{L}<1$, hence covering the full range of practically relevant design parameters. We demonstrate that our model significantly improves agreement with experimental data compared to the existing models, thereby enabling optimization beyond the previously accessible parameter space. Moreover, our model supports non-sinusoidal current-phase relations of the rf-SQUID's Josephson junction, allowing, for the first time, for the modeling of devices based on Josephson tunnel junctions with inhomogeneous tunnel barriers. We show that the effects of such inhomogeneities are qualitatively similar to, yet distinct from, those of the screening parameter, making their inclusion essential for accurate characterization. Incorporating these effects yields great improved agreement with measurements, even at readout power conditions well beyond typical operating parameters.

physics.ins-det↗

arXiv2025

CryoDE: a Digital Cryogenic Detector Emulator for Microwave SQUID Multiplexed Systems

Simultaneous readout of large-scale cryogenic detector arrays relies on multiplexing schemes such as the FDM (Frequency-Division Multiplexing) with microwave SQUID multiplexers and highly customized readout electronics. In traditional detector systems, where mixed-signal ASICs are used in detector front-ends and typically provide a digital interface, HIL (Hardware-in-the-Loop) testing can be readily implemented by reusing the existing digital logic of the front-end for emulation purposes. Such straightforward emulation is not possible for FDM low-temperature detectors, where the sensor signal is encoded in a high-frequency microwave carrier via a two-stage modulation scheme depending on the cryogenic resonators and the SQUID response. To address this challenge, we present CryoDE, a digital cryogenic-detector emulator for microwave SQUID multiplexed detector systems. CryoDE generates the encoded detector signals, including realistic pulse responses, enabling full HIL testing of the room-temperature DAQ system without requiring the cryogenic hardware. This resource-efficient FPGA-based detector twin integrates seamlessly into existing DAQ systems and allows experiment-specific adjustment of detector-signal parameters. We describe the internal architecture and capabilities of CryoDE within our custom HIL framework and demonstrate its use in evaluating the performance of real-time signal processing firmware optimized for different microwave SQUID multiplexed cryogenic-detector experiments.

physics.ins-det↗

arXiv2025

Poly- and single-crystalline diamond nitrogen-induced TLS losses estimation with superconducting lumped elements micro-resonators

Research on diamond has intensified due to its exceptional thermal, optical, and mechanical properties, making it a key material in quantum technologies and high-power applications. Diamonds with engineered nitrogen-vacancy (NV) centers represent a very sensitive platform for quantum sensing, while high-optical quality diamond windows represent a fundamental safety component inside Electron Cyclotron Resonance Heating (ECRH) systems in nuclear fusion reactors. A major challenge is the development of ultra-low-loss, high-optical-quality single-crystal diamond substrates to meet growing demands for quantum coherence and power handling. Traditionally, dielectric losses ($\tan \delta$) in diamonds are evaluated using Fabry-Perot microwave resonators, in which the resonance quality factors Q of the cavity with and without the sample are compared. These devices are limited to resolutions around 10$^{-5}$ by the need to keep the resonator dimensions within a reasonable range. In contrast, superconducting thin-film micro-strip resonators, with Q factors exceeding 10$^6$, are stated to provide higher sensitivity for assessing ultra-low-loss materials. This study examines four diamond samples grown through different processes, analyzing their dielectric losses at extreme low temperatures (sub-Kelvin) within the Two-Level System (TLS) framework. Complementary Raman spectroscopy measurements allowed us not only to associate higher nitrogen content with increased losses, but also to investigate how the different growth process influence the way these defects are incorporated in the crystal lattice.

cond-mat.mtrl-sci↗

arXiv2025

S2Doc -- Spatial-Semantic Document Format

Documents are a common way to store and share information, with tables being an important part of many documents. However, there is no real common understanding of how to model documents and tables in particular. Because of this lack of standardization, most scientific approaches have their own way of modeling documents and tables, leading to a variety of different data structures and formats that are not directly compatible. Furthermore, most data models focus on either the spatial or the semantic structure of a document, neglecting the other aspect. To address this, we developed S2Doc, a flexible data structure for modeling documents and tables that combines both spatial and semantic information in a single format. It is designed to be easily extendable to new tasks and supports most modeling approaches for documents and tables, including multi-page documents. To the best of our knowledge, it is the first approach of its kind to combine all these aspects in a single format.

cs.DL↗

arXiv2025

Improved limit on the effective electron neutrino mass with the ECHo-1k experiment

The effective electron neutrino mass can be determined by analyzing the endpoint region of the $^{163}$Ho electron capture spectrum, provided a measurement with high energy resolution and high statistics using calorimetric techniques. Here, the Electron Capture in $^{163}$Ho collaboration, ECHo, presents an analysis of the most precise $^{163}$Ho spectrum currently available, obtained with the ECHo-1k experiment and comprising about 200 million events. A very low background rate of $B=9.1(1.3)\times 10^{-6}$ /eV/pixel/day was achieved allowing for a reliable analysis of the endpoint region. The derived endpoint energy $Q = 2862(4)$ eV is in excellent agreement with the one independently determined via Penning-trap mass spectrometry of $Q=2863.2(6)$ eV [1]. The upper limit of the effective electron neutrino mass is improved by almost a factor 2 compared to the lowest current value [2], reaching $m_{\nu_\mathrm{e}} < 15 $ eV/c${^2}$ (90\% credible interval).

hep-ex↗

arXiv2025

Comparison of the detector response and calibration function of metallic microcalorimeters for X-ray photons and external electrons

Metallic microcalorimeters (MMCs) are cryogenic single-particle detectors that rely on a calorimetric detection principle. Due to their excellent energy resolution, close-to-ideal linear detector response, fast signal rise time and the potential for \SI{100}{\%} quantum efficiency, MMCs outperform conventional detectors by several orders of magnitude in resolution. These attributes make them particularly interesting for a broad spectrum of applications, including a next-generation neutrino mass experiment based on the measurement of the tritium beta-decay spectrum, with an objective of achieving a sensitivity surpassing that of the pioneering KATRIN experiment. However, although MMCs have been used in measurements of photons and heavy ions with great success, no information is currently available on the interaction between MMCs and external light charged particles such as electrons. This work aims to provide such missing information and to demonstrate that MMC-based detectors are suitable for high-resolution spectroscopy of external electron sources. Particularly, we present the first-ever measurements of external electrons using a metallic microcalorimeter, comprehensively discuss the characteristics of the signal shape and the calibration function and give a direct comparison between well-defined conversion electron and X-ray photon signals from the same $^{83}$Rb/$^{83m}$Kr source.

physics.ins-det↗

arXiv2024

Signal partitioning in superfluid ${}^4$He: a Monte Carlo approach

Superfluid ${}^4$He is an ideal candidate for the direct detection of light dark matter via nuclear recoils thanks to its low nuclear mass and the possibility to reach a low detection energy threshold by exploiting the generated quasiparticles. The design of future detectors based on this target, such as the DELight experiment, requires a proper understanding of the formation and partitioning of the signal for different energy depositions from various sources. This work presents an overview of the physical processes involved in the energy deposition of recoiling electrons and ions, and describes a Monte Carlo approach to the partitioning of the signal into different channels. Despite an overall good agreement with existing literature, differences in the region of interest for light dark matter searches below 200 eV are observed.

hep-ex↗

arXiv2024

Advanced fabrication process for particle absorbers of highly pure electroplated gold for microcalorimeter applications

Magnetic microcalorimeters (MMCs) have become a key technology for applications requiring outstanding energy resolution, fast signal rise time and excellent linearity. MMCs measure the temperature rise upon absorption of a single particle within a particle absorber by using a paramagnetic temperature sensor that is thermally coupled to the absorber. The design and fabrication of the particle absorber is key for excellent detector performance. Here, we present a microfabrication process for free-standing particle absorbers made of two stacked and independently electroplated high-purity Au layers. This enables, for example, embedding of radioactive sources within the absorber for realizing a $4\pi$ detection geometry in radionuclide metrology or preparing detector arrays with variable quantum efficiency and energy resolution as requested for future applications in high energy physics. Due to careful optimization of photoresist processing and electroplating parameters, the Au films are of very high purity and very high residual resistivity ratio values above 40, allowing for fast internal absorber thermalization.

physics.ins-det↗

arXiv2024

Anodization-free fabrication process for high-quality cross-type Josephson tunnel junctions based on a Nb/Al-AlO$_x$/Nb trilayer

Josephson tunnel junctions form the basis for various superconducting electronic devices. For this reason, enormous efforts are routinely taken to establish and later on maintain a scalable and reproducible wafer-scale manufacturing process for high-quality Josephson junctions. Here, we present an anodization-free fabrication process for Nb/Al-AlO$_x$/Nb cross-type Josephson junctions that requires only a small number of process steps and that is intrinsically compatible with wafer-scale fabrication. We show that the fabricated junctions are of very high-quality and, compared to other junction types, exhibit not only a significantly reduced capacitance but also an almost rectangular critical current density profile. Our process hence enables the usage of low capacitance Josephson junctions for superconducting electronic devices such as ultra-low noise dc-SQUIDs, microwave SQUID multiplexers based on non-hysteretic rf-SQUIDs and RFSQ circuits.

cond-mat.supr-con↗

arXiv2023

Magnetic microcalorimeters for primary activity standardization within the EMPIR project PrimA-LTD

The precision of existing decay data of radionuclides for activity determination is often a limitation for actual applications in science, society, and industry. For this reason, the EMPIR project PrimA-LTD aims to introduce an advanced primary activity standardization technique that is based on magnetic microcalorimeters (MMCs) and that will offer very low energy threshold of few eV and a decay scheme independent detection efficiency close to 100%. As a proof of concept, we developed two MMC-based detector types in order to standardize an $\alpha$-decaying, a $\beta$-decaying and an electron capture decaying isotope. One detector type aims to introduce a reusable detector setup, while the other aims to provide highly accurate decay spectra by high resolution measurements with high statistics. We present the designs, fabrication status and first characterization measurements of both detectors types and outline next steps.

physics.ins-det↗

arXiv2023

Design considerations for the optimization of {\lambda}-SQUIDs

Cryogenic microcalorimeters are key tools for high-resolution X-ray spectroscopy due to their excellent energy resolution and quantum efficiency close to 100%. Multiple types of microcalorimeters exist, some of which have already proven outstanding performance. Nevertheless, they can't yet compete with cutting-edge grating or crystal spectrometers. For this reason, novel microcalorimeter concepts are continuously developed. One such concept is based on the strong temperature dependence of the magnetic penetration depth of a superconductor operated close to its transition temperature. This so-called ${\lambda}$-SQUID provides an in-situ tunable gain and promises to reach sub-eV energy resolution. Here, we present some design considerations with respect to the optimization of such a detector that are derived by analytic means. We particularly show that for this detector concept the heat capacity of the sensor should match the heat capacity of the absorber.

physics.ins-det↗

arXiv2023

Magnetic microcalorimeter with paramagnetic temperature sensors and integrated dc-SQUID readout for high-resolution X-ray emission spectroscopy

We present two variants of a magnetic microcalorimeter with paramagnetic temperature sensors and integrated dc-SQUID readout for high-resolution X-ray emission spectroscopy. Each variant employs two overhanging gold absorbers with a sensitive area of 150$\mu$m x 150$\mu$m and a thickness of 3$\mu$m, thus providing a quantum efficiency of 98% for photons up to 5keV and 50% for photons up to 10keV. The first variant turned out to be fully operational, but, at the same time, to suffer from Joule power dissipation of the Josephson junction shunt resistors, athermal phonon loss, and slew rate limitations of the overall setup. Overall, it only achieved an energy resolution $\Delta E_\mathrm{FWHM} = 8.9eV$. In the second variant, we introduced an innovative `tetrapod absorber geometry' as well as a membrane-technique for protecting the temperature sensors against the power dissipation of the shunt resistors. By this, the second variant achieves an outstanding energy resolution of $\Delta E_\mathrm{FWHM} =1.25(18)eV$ and hence provides, to our knowledge, the present best energy resolving power $E/\Delta E_\mathrm{FWHM}$ among all existing energy-dispersive detectors for soft and tender X-rays.

physics.ins-det↗

arXiv2023

Optimum filter-based analysis for the characterization of a high-resolution magnetic microcalorimeter towards the DELight experiment

Ultra-sensitive cryogenic calorimeters have become a favored technology with widespread application where eV-scale energy resolutions are needed. In this article, we characterize the performance of an X-ray magnetic microcalorimeter (MMC) using a Fe-55 source. Employing an optimum filter-based amplitude estimation and energy reconstruction, we demonstrate that an unprecedented FWHM resolution of $\Delta E_\mathrm{FWHM} = \left(1.25\pm0.17\mathrm{\scriptsize{(stat)}}^{+0.05}_{-0.07}\mathrm{\scriptsize{(syst)}}\right)\,\text{eV}$ can be achieved. We also derive the best possible resolution and discuss limiting factors affecting the measurement. The analysis pipeline for the MMC data developed in this paper is furthermore an important step for the realization of the proposed superfluid helium-based experiment DELight, which will search for direct interaction of dark matter with masses below 100 MeV/c$^2$.

hep-ex↗

arXiv2023

SQUID-based superconducting microcalorimeter with in-situ tunable gain

Cryogenic microcalorimeters are outstanding tools for X-ray spectroscopy due to their unique combination of excellent energy resolution and close to 100% detection efficiency. While well-established microcalorimeter concepts have already proven impressive performance, their energy resolution has yet to improve to be competitive with cutting-edge wavelength-dispersive grating or crystal spectrometers. We hence present an innovative SQUID-based superconducting microcalorimeter with an in-situ tunable gain as alternative concept that is based on the strong temperature dependence of the magnetic penetration depth of a superconductor operated close to its critical temperature. Measurements using a prototype device show no sign for any hysteresis effects that often spoil the performance of superconducting microcalorimeters. Moreover, our predictions of the achievable energy resolution show that a competitive energy resolution O(300meV) with a suitable combination of absorber and sensor material should be easily possible.

physics.ins-det↗

arXiv2023

High precision measurement of the $^{99}$Tc $\beta$ spectrum

Highly precise measurements of the $^{99}$Tc beta spectrum were performed in two laboratories using metallic magnetic calorimeters. Independent sample preparations, evaluation methods and analyses yield consistent results and the spectrum could be measured down to less than 1 keV. Consistent beta spectra were also obtained via cross-evaluations of the experimental data sets. An additional independent measurement with silicon detectors in a $4\pi$ configuration confirms the spectrum shape above 25 keV. Detailed theoretical calculations were performed including nuclear structure and atomic effects. The spectrum shape was found to be sensitive to the effective value of the axial-vector coupling constant. Combining measurements and predictions, we extracted $Q_{\beta}=$295.82(16) keV and $g_A^{\text{eff}} = 1.530 (83)$. Furthermore, we derived the mean energy of the beta spectrum $\overline{E}_{\beta}$=98.45(20) keV, $\log f = -0.47660 (22)$ and $\log ft = 12.3478 (23)$.

nucl-ex↗

arXiv2022

Simultaneous MMC readout using a tailored {\mu}MUX based readout system

Magnetic microcalorimeters (MMCs) are cryogenic, energy-dispersive single-particle detectors providing excellent energy resolution, intrinsically fast signal rise time, quantum efficiency close to 100\%, large dynamic range as well as almost ideal linear response. One of the remaining challenges to be overcome to ultimately allow for the utilization of large-scale MMC based detector arrays with thousands to millions of individual pixels is the realization of a SQUID based multiplexing technique particularly tailored for MMC readout. Within this context, we report on the first truly multiplexed readout of an MMC based detector array using a frequency-division multiplexing approach realized by a custom microwave SQUID multiplexer based readout system.

physics.ins-det↗