Instruments

14 pages, 3682 KiB

Open AccessProject Report

Portable Arbitrary Pulse Generator for Driving Microcoils for Micromagnetic Neurostimulation

by Robert P. Bloom, Renata Saha, Zachary Sanger, Walter C. Low, Theoden I. Netoff and Jian-Ping Wang

Instruments 2024, 8(4), 55; https://doi.org/10.3390/instruments8040055 - 16 Dec 2024

Viewed by 680

Abstract

Micromagnetic stimulation (μMS) is a promising branch of neurostimulation but without some of the drawbacks of electrical stimulation. Microcoil (μcoil)-based magnetic stimulation uses small micrometer-sized coils that generate a time-varying magnetic field, which, as per Faraday’s Laws of Electromagnetic Induction, induces an electric [...] Read more.

Micromagnetic stimulation (μMS) is a promising branch of neurostimulation but without some of the drawbacks of electrical stimulation. Microcoil (μcoil)-based magnetic stimulation uses small micrometer-sized coils that generate a time-varying magnetic field, which, as per Faraday’s Laws of Electromagnetic Induction, induces an electric field on a conductive surface. This method of stimulation has the advantage of not requiring electrical contact with the tissue; however, these μcoils are not easy to operate. Large currents are required to generate the required magnetic field. These large currents are too large for standard test equipment to provide, and additional power amplifiers are needed. To aid in the testing and development of micromagnetic stimulation devices, we have created a compact single-unit test setup for driving these devices called the µCoil Driver. This unit is designed to drive small inductive loads up to ±8 V at 5 A and 10 kHz. Full article

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11 pages, 3737 KiB

Open AccessArticle

A 3D Printed Air-Tight Cell Adaptable for Far-Infrared Reflectance, Optical Photothermal Infrared Spectroscopy, and Raman Spectroscopy Measurements

by Annalisa Paolone, Arcangelo Celeste, Maria Di Pea, Sergio Brutti, Ferenc Borondics and Francesco Capitani

Instruments 2024, 8(4), 54; https://doi.org/10.3390/instruments8040054 - 16 Dec 2024

Viewed by 685

Abstract

Material characterization and investigation are the basis for improving the performance of electrochemical devices. However, many compounds with electrochemical applications are sensitive to atmospheric gases and moisture; therefore, even their characterization should be performed in a controlled atmosphere. In some cases, it is [...] Read more.

Material characterization and investigation are the basis for improving the performance of electrochemical devices. However, many compounds with electrochemical applications are sensitive to atmospheric gases and moisture; therefore, even their characterization should be performed in a controlled atmosphere. In some cases, it is impossible to execute such investigations in a glove box, and, therefore, in the present work, an air-tight 3D printed cell was developed that preserves samples in a controlled atmosphere while allowing spectroscopic measurements in reflectance geometry. Equipped with a cheap 1 mm thick CaF₂ optical window or a more expensive 0.5 mm thick ZnS window, the cell was used for both optical photothermal infrared and Raman spectroscopy measures; imaging of the samples was also possible. The far-infrared range reflectance measurements were performed with a cell equipped with a diamond window. Full article

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15 pages, 7434 KiB

Open AccessArticle

A New Approach to Enhancing Radiation Hardness in Advanced Nuclear Radiation Detectors Subjected to Fast Neutrons

by Aref Vakili, Mahsa Farasat, Antonino La Magna, Markus Italia and Lucio Pancheri

Instruments 2024, 8(4), 53; https://doi.org/10.3390/instruments8040053 - 12 Dec 2024

Viewed by 622

Abstract

Low-Gain Avalanche Diodes (LGADs) are critical sensors for the ATLAS and CMS timing detectors at the High Luminosity Large Hadron Collider (HL-LHC), offering enhanced timing resolution with gain factors of 20 to 50. However, their radiation tolerance is hindered by the Acceptor Removal [...] Read more.

Low-Gain Avalanche Diodes (LGADs) are critical sensors for the ATLAS and CMS timing detectors at the High Luminosity Large Hadron Collider (HL-LHC), offering enhanced timing resolution with gain factors of 20 to 50. However, their radiation tolerance is hindered by the Acceptor Removal Phenomenon (ARP), which deactivates boron in the gain layer, reducing gain below the threshold for accurate timing. This study investigates the radiation hardness of thin, carbon-doped LGAD sensors developed by Brookhaven National Laboratory (BNL) to address ARP-induced limitations. Active dopant profiles in the gain layer, junction, and bulk were measured using a Spreading Resistance Probe (SRP) profilometer, and the effects of annealing and neutron irradiation at fluences of 3 × 10¹⁴, 1 × 10¹⁵, and 3 × 10¹⁵ neq/cm² (1 MeV equivalent) were analyzed. Low carbon dose rates showed minimal improvement due to enhanced deactivation, while higher doses improved radiation hardness, demonstrating a non-linear dose–response relationship. These findings highlight the potential of optimizing gain layers with high carbon doses and low-diffusion boron to extend LGAD lifetimes in high-radiation environments. Future research will refine carbon implantation strategies and explore alternative approaches to further enhance the radiation hardness of LGADs. Full article

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17 pages, 80966 KiB

Open AccessArticle

An Open-Frame Loading Stage for High-Resolution X-Ray CT

by David Plappert, Michael Schütz, Georg C. Ganzenmüller, Frank Fischer, Mario Campos, Simon Procz, Michael Fiederle and Stefan Hiermaier

Instruments 2024, 8(4), 52; https://doi.org/10.3390/instruments8040052 - 3 Dec 2024

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Abstract

The utilisation of high-resolution in situ computed tomography (CT) in the (sub-)μm range is typically only viable in synchrotron facilities, as the deployment of a conventional loading stage in laboratory CTs with a cone beam source does not facilitate a corresponding geometric magnification. [...] Read more.

The utilisation of high-resolution in situ computed tomography (CT) in the (sub-)μm range is typically only viable in synchrotron facilities, as the deployment of a conventional loading stage in laboratory CTs with a cone beam source does not facilitate a corresponding geometric magnification. This publication presents a CT system with a novel in situ concept that allows spatial resolutions down to 0.5 μm, enabling the analysis of weakly absorbing materials capable of applying loads of up to 5 kN in both the compression and tension directions to the sample during the measurement. The necessity for a highly precise mechanical design to ensure successful measurements at magnifications approaching the theoretical limit makes the system’s development particularly demanding. The components employed are presented, along with the requisite considerations and methodologies. It can be demonstrated that the intended specifications with regard to precision and quality are met. The experimental results of a fibre-reinforced polymer demonstrate the system’s ability to detect matrix damage features below a single fibre diameter, thereby highlighting its potential for applications in materials science where traditional laboratory CTs are insufficient and synchrotron access is limited. Full article

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14 pages, 3443 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Acoustic Communication Among Smart Sensors: A Feasibility Study

by Paolo Caruso, Helbert da Rocha, Antonio Espírito-Santo, Vincenzo Paciello and José Salvado

Instruments 2024, 8(4), 51; https://doi.org/10.3390/instruments8040051 - 22 Nov 2024

Viewed by 613

Abstract

Smart sensors and networks have spread worldwide over the past few decades. In the industry field, these concepts have found an increasing quantity of applications. The omnipresence of smart sensor networks and smart devices, especially in the industrial world, has contributed to the [...] Read more.

Smart sensors and networks have spread worldwide over the past few decades. In the industry field, these concepts have found an increasing quantity of applications. The omnipresence of smart sensor networks and smart devices, especially in the industrial world, has contributed to the emergence of the concept of Industry 4.0. In a world where everything is interconnected, communication among smart devices is critical to technological development in the field of smart industry. To improve communication, many engineers and researchers implemented methods to standardize communication along the various levels of the ISO-OSI model, from hardware design to the implementation and standardization of different communication protocols. The objective of this paper is to study and implement an unconventional type of communication, exploiting acoustic wave propagation on metallic structures, starting from the state of the art, and highlighting the advantages and disadvantages found in existing literature, trying to overcome them and describing the progress beyond the state of the art. The proposed application for acoustic communication targets the field of smart industries, where implementing signal transmission via wireless or wired methods is challenging due to interference from the widespread presence of metallic structures. This study explores an innovative approach to acoustic communication, with a particular focus on the physical challenges related to acoustic wave propagation. Additionally, communication performance is examined in terms of noise rejection, analyzing the impact of injected acoustic noise on communication efficiency. Full article

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22 pages, 1988 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Assessing the Performance of Deep Learning Predictions for Dynamic Aperture of a Hadron Circular Particle Accelerator

by Davide Di Croce, Massimo Giovannozzi, Carlo Emilio Montanari, Tatiana Pieloni, Stefano Redaelli and Frederik F. Van der Veken

Instruments 2024, 8(4), 50; https://doi.org/10.3390/instruments8040050 - 19 Nov 2024

Viewed by 805

Abstract

Understanding the concept of dynamic aperture provides essential insights into nonlinear beam dynamics, beam losses, and the beam lifetime in circular particle accelerators. This comprehension is crucial for the functioning of modern hadron synchrotrons like the CERN Large Hadron Collider and the planning [...] Read more.

Understanding the concept of dynamic aperture provides essential insights into nonlinear beam dynamics, beam losses, and the beam lifetime in circular particle accelerators. This comprehension is crucial for the functioning of modern hadron synchrotrons like the CERN Large Hadron Collider and the planning of future ones such as the Future Circular Collider. The dynamic aperture defines the extent of the region in phase space where the trajectories of charged particles are bounded over numerous revolutions, the actual number being defined by the physical application. Traditional methods for calculating the dynamic aperture depend on computationally demanding numerical simulations, which require tracking over multiple turns of numerous initial conditions appropriately distributed in phase space. Prior research has shown the efficiency of a multilayer perceptron network in forecasting the dynamic aperture of the CERN Large Hadron Collider ring, achieving a remarkable speed-up of up to 200-fold compared to standard numerical tracking tools. Building on recent advancements, we conducted a comparative study of various deep learning networks based on BERT, DenseNet, ResNet and VGG architectures. The results demonstrate substantial enhancements in the prediction of the dynamic aperture, marking a significant advancement in the development of more precise and efficient surrogate models of beam dynamics. Full article

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37 pages, 2139 KiB

Open AccessArticle

A Review of the Multiple-Readout Concept and Its Application in an Integrally Active Calorimeter

by Corrado Gatto, Vito Di Benedetto and Anna Mazzacane

Instruments 2024, 8(4), 49; https://doi.org/10.3390/instruments8040049 - 14 Nov 2024

Viewed by 670

Abstract

A comprehensive multi-jet physics program is anticipated for experiments at future colliders. Key physics processes necessitate detectors that can distinguish signals from W and Z bosons and the Higgs boson. Typical examples include channels with

W^{+} W^{-}

or [...] Read more.

A comprehensive multi-jet physics program is anticipated for experiments at future colliders. Key physics processes necessitate detectors that can distinguish signals from W and Z bosons and the Higgs boson. Typical examples include channels with

W^{+} W^{-}

or

Z^{o} Z^{o}

pairs and processes involving new physics in those cases where neutral particles must be disentangled from charged ones due to the presence of W or Z bosons in their final states. Such a physics program demands calorimetric energy resolution at or beyond the limits of traditional calorimetric techniques. Multiple-readout calorimetry, which aims to reduce fluctuations in energy measurements of hadronic showers, is a promising approach. The first part of this article reviews dual- and triple-readout calorimetry within a mathematical framework describing the underlying compensating mechanism. The second part proposes a potential implementation using an integrally active and total absorption detector. This model serves as the basis for several Monte Carlo studies, illustrating how the response of a multiple-readout calorimeter depends on construction parameters. Among the layouts considered, one configuration operating in triple-readout mode shows the potential to achieve an energy resolution approaching

20 % / \sqrt{E}

. Full article

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10 pages, 5685 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Improvement and Characterisation of the ArCLight Large-Area Dielectric Light Detector for Liquid-Argon Time Projection Chambers

by Jonas Bürgi, Livio Calivers, Richard Diurba, Fabian Frieden, Anja Gauch, Laura Francesca Iacob, Igor Kreslo, Jan Kunzmann, Saba Parsa and Michele Weber

Instruments 2024, 8(4), 48; https://doi.org/10.3390/instruments8040048 - 4 Nov 2024

Viewed by 1005

Abstract

The detection of scintillation light in noble-liquid detectors is necessary for identifying neutrino interaction candidates from beam, astrophysical, or solar sources. Large monolithic detectors typically have highly efficient light sensors, like photomultipliers, mounted outside their electric field. This option is not available for [...] Read more.

The detection of scintillation light in noble-liquid detectors is necessary for identifying neutrino interaction candidates from beam, astrophysical, or solar sources. Large monolithic detectors typically have highly efficient light sensors, like photomultipliers, mounted outside their electric field. This option is not available for modular detectors that wish to maximize their active volume. The ArgonCube light readout system detectors (ArCLights) are large-area thin-wavelength-shifting (WLS) panels that can operate in highly proximate modular detectors and within the electric field. The WLS plastic forming the bulk structure of the ArCLight has Tetraphenyl Butadiene (TPB) and sheets of dichroic mirror layered across its surface. It is coupled to a set of six silicon photomultipliers (SiPMs). This publication compares TPB coating techniques for large surface areas and describes quality control methods for large-scale production. Full article

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65 pages, 38582 KiB

Open AccessFeature PaperReview

Transition Edge Sensors: Physics and Applications

by Mario De Lucia, Paolo Dal Bo, Eugenia Di Giorgi, Tommaso Lari, Claudio Puglia and Federico Paolucci

Instruments 2024, 8(4), 47; https://doi.org/10.3390/instruments8040047 - 31 Oct 2024

Viewed by 2096

Abstract

Transition Edge Sensors (TESs) are amongst the most sensitive cryogenic detectors and can be easily optimized for the detection of massive particles or photons ranging from X-rays all the way down to millimetre radiation. Furthermore, TESs exhibit unmatched energy resolution while being easily [...] Read more.

Transition Edge Sensors (TESs) are amongst the most sensitive cryogenic detectors and can be easily optimized for the detection of massive particles or photons ranging from X-rays all the way down to millimetre radiation. Furthermore, TESs exhibit unmatched energy resolution while being easily frequency domain multiplexed in arrays of several hundred pixels. Such great performance, along with rather simple and sturdy readout and amplification chains make TESs extremely compelling for applications in many fields of scientific endeavour. While the first part of this article is an in-depth discussion on the working principles of Transition Edge Sensors, the remainder of this review article focuses on the applications of Transition Edge Sensors in advanced scientific instrumentation serving as an accessible and thorough list of possible starting points for more comprehensive literature research. Full article

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8 pages, 1124 KiB

Open AccessCommunication

Light Output Function and Pulse-Shape Discrimination Capability of p-Terphenyl Organic Scintillator in Wide Neutron Energy Range of 1.1 to 19 MeV

by Aleš Jančář, Zdeněk Kopecký, Jiří Čulen, Zdeněk Matěj and Michal Košťál

Instruments 2024, 8(4), 46; https://doi.org/10.3390/instruments8040046 - 22 Oct 2024

Viewed by 773

Abstract

In this work, we studied the light-output properties, efficiency function, as well as the pulse-shape discrimination (PSD) capability of p-Terphenyl scintillator. The selected solid cylindrical scintillation detector has a thickness of 45 mm and a diameter of 45 mm. Recently presented studies of [...] Read more.

In this work, we studied the light-output properties, efficiency function, as well as the pulse-shape discrimination (PSD) capability of p-Terphenyl scintillator. The selected solid cylindrical scintillation detector has a thickness of 45 mm and a diameter of 45 mm. Recently presented studies of light-output functions have only been measured for low-neutron energies. Our motivation has been to determine the light output function for p-Terphenyl scintillator more accurately over a wider neutron energy range. The measurements have been carried out with mono-energetic neutron beams in the wide energy range from 1.1 to 19 MeV. The neutron–gamma spectrometric system which we developed has been used for the measurement. The input analog signal from the detector was digitized with a fast 12-bits analog to digital converter with a sampling frequency of 1 GHz. Measured data from the detector are processed into the gamma and neutron spectra. The accurate light output function for the p-Therphenyl scintillator has been calculated. The pulse-shape discrimination capability, as well as the detection efficiency, of a p-Terphenyl scintillator are lower in comparison with a NE-213 equivalent detector. Full article

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4 pages, 187 KiB

Open AccessEditorial

Advances in Space Astroparticle Physics: Frontier Technologies for Particle Measurements in Space

by Matteo Duranti and Valerio Vagelli

Instruments 2024, 8(4), 45; https://doi.org/10.3390/instruments8040045 - 12 Oct 2024

Viewed by 1016

Abstract

In the last decades, breakthrough advances in understanding the mechanisms of the Universe and fundamental physics have been achieved through the exploitation of data on cosmic rays and high-energy radiation gathered via orbiting experiments, in a synergic and complementary international effort that combines [...] Read more.

In the last decades, breakthrough advances in understanding the mechanisms of the Universe and fundamental physics have been achieved through the exploitation of data on cosmic rays and high-energy radiation gathered via orbiting experiments, in a synergic and complementary international effort that combines space-based instrument data with ground-based space observatories, accelerator, and collider experiments [...] Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advances in Space AstroParticle Physics: Frontier Technologies for Particle Measurements in Space)

10 pages, 4052 KiB

Open AccessArticle

An In Situ Automated System for Real-Time Monitoring of Failures in Large-Scale Field Emitter Arrays

by Reza Farsad Asadi, Tao Zheng, Menglin Wang, Han Gao, Kenneth Sangston and Bruce Gnade

Instruments 2024, 8(4), 44; https://doi.org/10.3390/instruments8040044 - 6 Oct 2024

Cited by 1 | Viewed by 1447

Abstract

Nano-scale vacuum transistors (NVCTs) based on field emission have the potential to operate at high frequencies and withstand harsh environments, such as radiation, high temperatures, and high power. However, they have demonstrated instability and failures over time. To achieve high currents from NVCTs, [...] Read more.

Nano-scale vacuum transistors (NVCTs) based on field emission have the potential to operate at high frequencies and withstand harsh environments, such as radiation, high temperatures, and high power. However, they have demonstrated instability and failures over time. To achieve high currents from NVCTs, these devices are typically fabricated in large-scale arrays known as field emitter arrays (FEAs), which share a common gate, cathode, and anode. Consequently, the measured currents come from the entire array, providing limited information about the emission characteristics of individual tips. Arrays can exhibit nonuniform emission behavior across the emitting area. A phosphor screen can be used to monitor the emission pattern of the array. Additionally, visible damage can occur on the surface of the FEAs, potentially leading to the destruction of the gate and emitters, causing catastrophic failure of the FEAs. To monitor damage while operating the device, an ITO-coated glass anode, which is electrically conductive and visible-light-transparent, can be used. In this work, a method was developed to automatically monitor the emission pattern of the emitters and the changes in surface morphology while operating the devices and collecting electrical data, providing real-time information on the failure sequence of the FEAs. Full article

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Instruments, Volume 8, Issue 4 (December 2024) – 12 articles

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