Thermal detection of particles using bolometric devices

Low temperature calorimeters can be used to measure the energy released by a single particle with very high resolution. We have developed a system for studying the behaviour of various kinds of calorimeters from the point of view of their thermoelectrical properties and also their characteristics as particle detectors. Preliminary experimental results of a composite detector are shown (the resolution is 3% for the 8.78 MeV α-line from 228Ra). Future developments both for optimizing the resolution and improving the system performances are briefly discussed. (orig.)