Discussion Overview
The discussion centers on the capability of a thin mylar film with deposited ZnS:Ag to detect low energy protons, specifically 10 keV protons, in a high vacuum environment. Participants explore the sensitivity of ZnS:Ag to different particle energies and the experimental setup involving a Cockroft-Walton accelerator.
Discussion Character
- Exploratory, Technical explanation, Debate/contested
Main Points Raised
- One participant inquires about the detection capability of ZnS:Ag for 10 keV protons in high vacuum.
- Another participant suggests that detection is possible if protons do not pass through the mylar film.
- A different participant expresses skepticism, noting that ZnS:Ag is primarily sensitive to ~5 MeV alpha particles, implying that 10 keV protons may not be detectable.
- A later reply describes an experimental setup involving a Cockroft-Walton accelerator, where ZnS:Ag fluoresces strongly under conditions with 1mA of ions and some air leakage, raising questions about the source of fluorescence.
- The presence of a strong magnetic field affecting the invisible beam is mentioned, suggesting that there are indeed ions present.
Areas of Agreement / Disagreement
Participants express differing views on the detection capability of ZnS:Ag for 10 keV protons, with some supporting the possibility and others questioning it based on the material's sensitivity characteristics. The discussion remains unresolved regarding the effectiveness of the detection method.
Contextual Notes
There are uncertainties regarding the assumptions about the detection capabilities of ZnS:Ag, the effects of the mylar film, and the influence of environmental factors such as air leakage in the experimental setup.
