A new MPGD design: Micro-mesh micro-pixel chamber

A novel Micro-Pattern Gaseous Detector (MPGD) Micro-Mesh Micro-Pixel Chamber (M3M3-PIC) has been developed for particle imaging and/or a TPC readout. The M3M3-PIC consists of a micro-pixel chamber (μμ-PIC) and a thin micro-mesh film. An intensive electric field is formed around a point-like anode electrode that provides higher gas gain and more stable operation than existing MPGDs. In addition, ion backflow fraction (IBF) into the detection volume is strongly suppressed. A prototype of this detector (3cm×3cm) has been manufactured and successfully operated. Stable operation with a gas gain of more than 5×1045×104 was achieved using an Ar:ethane=50:50Ar:ethane=50:50 gas mixture, and the measured IBF was 0.5%.