ZnS:Ag Detects 10 keV Protons in High Vacuum

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SUMMARY

The discussion centers on the capability of a thin mylar film coated with ZnS:Ag to detect 10 keV protons in a high vacuum environment. Participants confirm that while ZnS:Ag exhibits peak sensitivity to approximately 5 MeV alpha particles, it may not effectively detect lower energy protons due to insufficient energy levels. The context involves a Cockroft-Walton accelerator, where a 1mA ion source is utilized, and the presence of fluorescence indicates ion activity despite the low energy of the protons. The interaction of the invisible beam with a strong magnet further supports the detection of ions.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of ZnS:Ag scintillation properties
  • Knowledge of proton detection techniques
  • Familiarity with Cockroft-Walton accelerator operation
  • Basic principles of fluorescence and ion behavior in vacuum
NEXT STEPS
  • Research the sensitivity range of ZnS:Ag for various particle types
  • Explore alternative materials for low-energy proton detection
  • Investigate the design and operation of Cockroft-Walton accelerators
  • Learn about ion beam manipulation techniques using magnetic fields
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Physicists, engineers, and researchers involved in particle detection, accelerator technology, and materials science will benefit from this discussion.

VACUUMIST
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Hi

I need to know if a thin mylar film with deposited ZnS:Ag is capable to detect low energy protons, say 10 keV, emitted in a high vacuum.
 
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This is just a guess but I would say yes if the proton do not have to pass through the mylar.
 
I think ZnS:Ag has a peak sensitivity to ~5 MeV alpha particles. A 10 keV proton probably wouldn't be energetic enough to detect.
 
gleem, websterling,
Thanks to you both.
A friend of mine is building a Cockroft-Walton accelerator, now at the ion source stage.
The ion source is delivering 1mA of ions, and 4 inches below the extraction electrode he placed a thin mylar covered with ZnS:Ag.
It fluoresces strongly and the invisible beam can be displaced with a strong magnet.
So, there are ions and fluorescence, under 10 kV.
The system has some leaks, so it is not fed only with H2, there is some air also. At first I guessed was UV-induced fluorescence but the magnet move the beam.
ion beam.jpg

See the attached image. At the center of the electrode there is a small piece of the mylar as well a "collar" outside it.
 

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