Use of aerogel for imaging Cherenkov counters

Abstract

In the past, detectors using silica aerogel as a Cherenkov radiator treated this material as a diffuse source of Cherenkov photons. In this paper we report on measurements made to explore the feasibility of using aerogel for imaging Cherenkov purposes. The results of the measurements are reproduced by a detailed Monte Carlo. This allows us to identify parameters critical for the use of aerogel as a radiator in imaging detectors. We conclude that commercially available aerogel can be used for these purposes.