Wide band spectroscopic response of monocrystallines to low dose neutron and gamma radiation

Abstract

We identify a number of crystalline structures with promising characteristics to serve as a detection medium for a novel Dark Matter (DM) detector with a low threshold energy. A detector of this kind can be specifically useful in application requiring the detection of nuclear recoils, such as in direct detection of low mass DM, coherent neutrino scattering and neutrons. We describe a broad band, high sensitivity optical setup designed and constructed for the purpose of this search and future investigations of specific crystals. We report on the fluorescent signals produced from exposure to low doses of neutrons and γ rays and find potential targets in Quartz, Sapphire, LiF, CaF 2 and BaF 2 . These crystals and specific signals will be the subject of further study to establish the various traits relevant for a full scale DM detector. In this paper we identify the most interesting signals that will be promoted to significantly more detailed studies, including their production mechanism.