The SuperNEMO demonstrator double beta experiment

• Published in: Nuclear instruments & methods in physics research. Section A, Accelerators, spectrometers, detectors and associated equipment Vol. 958; p. 162115
• Main Author: Jeremie, Andrea
• Format: Journal Article
• Language: English
• Published: Elsevier B.V 01.04.2020
• Subjects: Double beta decay detectors; Low-radioactivity detector; 99-00; Double beta decay detectors; 00-01; Low-radioactivity detector
• ISSN: 0168-9002; 1872-9576
• DOI: 10.1016/j.nima.2019.04.069

The SuperNEMO experiment will study  82Se to look for neutrinoless double beta decays (0νββ), proof of the Majorana nature of neutrinos. SuperNEMO inherits the tracking-calorimetry technique of NEMO-3, allowing for a clear determination of event kinematics, while aiming for an improved background suppression and 0νββ sensitivity. A demonstrator module is currently starting operation. The ββ emitting source, ∼7 kg of  82Se in thin foils, is surrounded by a 0.5 meter long helium tracking chamber with 2000 Geiger cells. A 4π gamma catcher and electron calorimeter, made of plastic scintillators with an energy resolution of 7.8% (FWHM) at 1 MeV, surrounds the tracker. The ultra low radioactivity demonstrator is constructed and installed in the Modane Underground Laboratory in the Frejus Tunnel under the French–Italian Alps. •Low background module was assembled with the source foils, tracker and calorimeter.•Pure  82Se source foils were partly produced by a new method with standalone pads.•Optical module blocks have resolutions of 7.8% FWHM @1 MeV.•Rn emanation from fully assembled tracker reached the target of 150μBq/m3.•Commissioning of demonstrator is ongoing with the gradual start-up of components.