Construction of Yemilab

• Published in: arXiv.org
• Main Authors: Park, K S, Kim, Y D, Bang, K M, Park, H K, Lee, M H, Jang, J H, Kim, J H, J So, Kim, S H, Kim, S B
• Format: Paper Journal Article
• Language: English
• Published: Ithaca Cornell University Library, arXiv.org 21.02.2024
• Subjects: Beta decay; Dark matter; Laboratories; Limestone; Neutrinos; Physics - High Energy Physics - Experiment; Physics - Instrumentation and Detectors; Physics - Instrumentation and Methods for Astrophysics; Physics - Nuclear Experiment
• ISSN: 2331-8422
• DOI: 10.48550/arxiv.2402.13708

The Center for Underground Physics of the Institute for Basic Science (IBS) in Korea has been planning the construction of a deep underground laboratory since 2013 to search for extremely rare interactions such as dark matter and neutrinos. In September 2022, a new underground laboratory, Yemilab, was finally completed in Jeongseon, Gangwon Province, with a depth of 1,000 m and an exclusive experimental area spanning 3,000 m\(^3\). The tunnel is encased in limestone and accommodates 17 independent experimental spaces. Over two years, from 2023 to 2024, the Yangyang Underground Laboratory facilities will be relocated to Yemilab. Preparations are underway for the AMoRE-II, a neutrinoless double beta decay experiment, scheduled to begin in Q2 2024 at Yemilab. Additionally, Yemilab includes a cylindrical pit with a volume of approximately 6,300 m\(^3\), designed as a multipurpose laboratory for next-generation experiments involving neutrinos, dark matter, and related research. This article provides a focused overview of the construction and structure of Yemilab.