Abstract
Resistive Plate Chambers (RPCs) are widely used in particle physics applications, including the CERN LHC experiments. RPCs are often operated with a gas mixture containing C 2 H 2 F 4 and S F 6 , both greenhouse gases (GHGs) with a high global warming potential (GWP). The reduction of GHG emissions and the search for eco-friendly alternatives are crucial for use of RPCs in future since F-gases are being phased out in Europe. The best way to immediately reduce GHG emissions is to use gas recirculation systems. In parallel, CERN gas team is developing a new recuperation system specifically conceived for C 2 H 2 F 4 and S F 6 , where good performance has been achieved. For long-term operation, low GWP gases are studied. Hydrofluoroolefins (HFO), chlorofluorocarbons and 3M Novec are identified as possible replacements for C 2 H 2 F 4 and S F 6 . Several eco-friendly gas mixtures were investigated on 2 mm gap RPCs, by measuring detector performance, i.e. efficiency, streamer probability, induced charge, cluster size and time resolution. Studies were done in laboratory and at the CERN Gamma Irradiation Facility (GIF++), which provides a muon beam combined with a gamma source . Comparative analyses were performed between RPC operated with standard mixture and mixtures containing HFO with the addition of He or CO 2 or mixtures with alternatives to S F 6 .
Published Version
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