Speaker
Dr
Francisco Jose Iguaz Gutierrez
(University of Zaragoza)
Description
Dark Matter experiments are recently focusing their detection techniques in low-mass WIMPs, which requires the use of light elements and low energy threshold. In this context, we describe the TREX-DM experiment, a low background Micromegas-based TPC for low-mass WIMP detection. Its main goal is the operation of an active detection mass ∼0.300 kg, with an energy threshold below 0.4 keVee and fully built with previously selected radiopure materials. This work focus on the commissioning of the actual setup situated in a laboratory on surface. We also describe the updates needed for a possible physics run at the Canfranc Underground Laboratory in 2016. A preliminary background model of TREX-DM is also presented, based on Geant4 simulations and two discrimination methods: a conservative muon/electron and one based on a 252Cf source. Based on this background model, TREX-DM could be competitive in the search for low mass WIMPs. In particular it could be sensitive, e.g., to the low mass WIMP interpretation of the DAMA/LIBRA and other hints in a conservative scenario.
Primary author
Dr
Francisco Jose Iguaz Gutierrez
(University of Zaragoza)
Co-authors
Dr
Igor Garcia Irastorza
(University of Zaragoza)
Mr
Javier Gracia Garza
(University of Zaragoza)
