"Search for Neutrino-less Double Beta Decay Using ⁽¹³⁶⁾Xe Crystal as Solid Source Detector"

Physics Major: Bradley Stephen Daniel

Abstract: Liquid Xenon (LXe) is particularly well suited to detect rare nuclear decay. The Enriched Xenon Observatory (EXO) collaboration is using a large LXe source to detect double beta decay in order to learn more about the neutrino. Theoretically, Solid Xenon (SXe) may act as a much more efficient detector than LXe, because it can act as a bolometer which will detect the heat energy of an event. This creates higher energy resolution, which is very important for detecting double beta decay which appears as a relatively small energy spike ad can easily be lost in the background. The purpose of this research is to inquire about what the most feasible method of developing a SXe source detector is. 

This research will primarily focus on the actual growth and development of the crystal. Building on existing research into the methods of growing rare gas crystals as well as methods of detecting double beta decay, this paper will attempt to define the best way to grow a SXe crystal for the detection of double beta decay. The desired outcome is the eventual observation of neutrino-less double beta decay. In this event, the confirmed existence of this decay would tell us about the nature of the anti-neutrino, confirm the occurrence of lepton number violation, and perhaps shed light on the matter / anti-matter asymmetry in the universe. 

Advisor: Dr. Michelle Dolinski