Combined method for particle identification (J1-9340)

The purpose of the proposed project is the development of a new particle identification method where a novel type of particle identification device would be employed, combining a proximity focusing RICH technique with the time-of-flight measurement.

A proximity focusing RICH with aerogel radiator has been studied to extend the pion-kaon separation in the forward region of the Belle spectrometer. Such a proximity focusing RICH counter is also a very fast detector, in particular if a micro-channel plate photo-multiplier tube is used as the photon detector. With its excellent timing properties, the same device could also serve as a time-of-flight counter and thus supplement other identification methods. Čerenkov photons emitted in the radiator medium as well as in the entrance window of the photo-multiplier tube can be used for the time-of-flight measurement. This allows to positively identify also particles that would be below the Cherenkov threshold in the aerogel radiator (kaons and protons in the region around 1 GeV/c). Consequently, a good separation of kaons and protons would be possible in this region as well.

Within the proposed project, first the properties of detectors of single photons will be studied (spatial uniformity of the response, cross-talk, time resolution, intrinsic noise), both on the bench and with test beams. Based on the obtained results the parameters of the device will be optimized by Monte Carlo simulation. Finally, a prototype will be designed and constructed. Its performance will be tested by cosmic rays and test beam.