Reconstruction algorithm for a novel Cherenkov scintillation detector

Abstract

For future MeV-scale neutrino experiments, a Cherenkov scintillation detector, CSD, is of particular interest for its capability to reconstruct both energy and direction for charged particles. A type of new target material, slow liquid scintillator, SlowLS, which can be used to separate Cherenkov and scintillation lights, is one of the options for the neutrino detectors. A multi-hundred ton spherical CSD is simulated using a Geant4-based Monte Carlo software, which handles the detailed the micro processes of MeV particles and optical photons and the functions for photomultiplier, PMT, and readout electronics. Twelve SlowLS samples are simulated and studied to cover a wide range of scintillation light yields and scintillation emission time constants. Based on the detailed knowledge of the signal processes, simplified functions are constructed to predict the charge and time signals on the PMTs to fulfill an efficient reconstruction for the energy, direction, and position of charged particles. The performance of the SlowLS reconstruction, including the resulting energy, angular, and position resolution, and particle identification capability, is presented for these samples. The dependence of the performance on the scintillation light yield and emission time constants is understood. This study will be a guideline for future MeV-scale neutrino CSD design and SlowLS development for the interested physics goals.