Characterization of a prototype single ThGEM detector

Thick Gas Electron Multiplier (ThGEM) is a modification of the Gas Electron Multiplier detector that have foils of thicker and larger hole sizes. ThGEMs were first introduced by several groups in the early 2000. ThGEMs have a few 100 micron to millimeter level position resolution, making them very good candidates for tracking detectors. We have characterized the prototype ThGEM detector using X-rays from an ⁵⁵Fe source. Initial results show that the detector is able to detect the X-rays with scope to have better energy resolution. A second peak like structure has also been observed in the energy spectrum. This could be because of a slight bend in the foil (standoff screws were not precisely positioned) causing distortion in the electric field. The electric field in the holes in some regions of the foil might have been higher. The variation of the detector gain as a function of time and applied voltage has been studied. The gain increases linearly with voltage and it reduces over time due to space charge effects. We will improve the resolution of the detector by rectifying the design limitations and do a thorough characterization of the detector. We also plan to design and develop multigap ThGEM detectors with single photon detection efficiency