Instruments

8 pages, 3222 KB

Open AccessArticle

Design and Operation of a Flash Lamp for Vacuum Ultraviolet Light Production

by Silas Bosco, Jonas Bürgi, Livio Calivers, Richard Diurba, Johannes Furrer, Jan Kunzmann, Saba Parsa, Sascha Rivera, Nicolas Sallin, Camilla Tognina, Serhan Tufanli, Michele Weber and Dominik Wermelinger

Instruments 2026, 10(2), 29; https://doi.org/10.3390/instruments10020029 - 18 May 2026

Abstract

Noble liquids, notably argon and xenon, are utilised as both detector media and as the detector target for dark matter and neutrino physics experiments. When the noble liquid is excited by particles, it scintillates vacuum ultraviolet light, which sensors then detect. A major [...] Read more.

Noble liquids, notably argon and xenon, are utilised as both detector media and as the detector target for dark matter and neutrino physics experiments. When the noble liquid is excited by particles, it scintillates vacuum ultraviolet light, which sensors then detect. A major focus of the detector development community is on producing precision light sensors for noble liquid detectors. We introduce a flash lamp to test VUV-sensitive light sensors with light at wavelengths observed using noble liquid detectors. This paper discusses the design and presents results from a flash lamp prototype operated at room temperature. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Particle Detectors and Accelerators)

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31 pages, 12567 KB

Open AccessArticle

Development of a Cherenkov-Based Time-of-Flight Detector Using Silicon Photomultipliers

by Liliana Congedo, Giuseppe De Robertis, Antonio Di Mauro, Mario Giliberti, Francesco Licciulli, Antonio Liguori, Rocco Liotino, Leonarda Lorusso, Mario Nicola Mazziotta, Eugenio Nappi, Nicola Nicassio, Giuliana Panzarini, Roberta Pillera and Giacomo Volpe

Instruments 2026, 10(2), 28; https://doi.org/10.3390/instruments10020028 - 13 May 2026

Abstract

The aim of this work is to develop high-precision time-of-flight (TOF) devices based on high-refractive-index solid Cherenkov radiators read out by silicon photomultipliers (SiPMs). Cherenkov light is prompt and, therefore, ideal for reaching the intrinsic timing limits of TOF systems. By utilizing a [...] Read more.

The aim of this work is to develop high-precision time-of-flight (TOF) devices based on high-refractive-index solid Cherenkov radiators read out by silicon photomultipliers (SiPMs). Cherenkov light is prompt and, therefore, ideal for reaching the intrinsic timing limits of TOF systems. By utilizing a thin, high-refractive-index radiator, a nearly instantaneous signal is generated by particles exceeding the Cherenkov threshold. In order to achieve the ultimate time resolution, we carried out a rigorous optimization of the radiator material and geometry, alongside the efficiency of the optical coupling to the SiPM sensors. The key factors limiting the time resolution were characterized by comprehensive Monte Carlo simulations, subsequently validated against experimental beam test data. We assembled small-scale prototypes instrumented with various Hamamatsu SiPM array sensors with active areas ranging from 1.3 to 3 mm, coupled with various window materials, such as fused silica and MgF₂, featuring various thickness values. The prototypes were successfully tested in beam test campaigns at the CERN-PS T10 beamline. The data were collected with a complete chain of front-end and readout electronics based on either the Petiroc 2A or the Radioroc 2 interfaced to a picoTDC to measure charges and times. By comparing the time measurements from two SiPM arrays, we were able to measure a time resolution better than 33.2 ps at the full system level, with a charged-particle detection efficiency of 100%. Our results demonstrate the expected performance benchmarks for the charged-particle detection efficiency and time resolution, and they highlight the potential of the developed Cherenkov-based TOF detectors for next-generation particle identification systems. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Silicon Photomultiplier-Based Systems for Particle and Radiation Detection)

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17 pages, 16277 KB

Open AccessArticle

Characterization and Performance Assessment of a SiPM-Based Muon Detector

by Luigi Cimmino, Fabio Ambrosino, Antonio Anastasio, Carla Aramo, Vincenzo Bottiglieri, David Iacopini, Vincenzo Masone, Marco Mirra, Gabor Nyitrai, Leopoldo Repola, Giulio Saracino and Vincenzo Tramontano

Instruments 2026, 10(2), 27; https://doi.org/10.3390/instruments10020027 - 5 May 2026

Abstract

We present the upgrade and performance evaluation of a silicon photomultiplier (SiPM)-based muon detector, originally designed and developed 15 years ago for radiation tracking applications in radiographic imaging with cosmic muons. The first use of the original assembly and scientific objectives of the [...] Read more.

We present the upgrade and performance evaluation of a silicon photomultiplier (SiPM)-based muon detector, originally designed and developed 15 years ago for radiation tracking applications in radiographic imaging with cosmic muons. The first use of the original assembly and scientific objectives of the detector was in the Mu-Ray project of the Italian National Institute for Nuclear Physics (INFN) for muon radiographic imaging of volcanoes. In addition to its initial uses and after being upgraded with Hamamatsu SiPMs, the detector has been employed in a series of measurement campaigns for the detection of underground cavities. Herein we describe the mechanical recovery process and the integration of modern electronic components aimed at extending the operational capabilities of the detector, with particular attention to the adaptation of the front-end electronics to a new DAQ system. The results of the detector’s characterization and calibration under controlled conditions will be presented, evaluating its current performance and suitability for muography applications in a new geophysical setting. The results confirm that, despite aging, the system remains a viable instrument for precision and reliable muon tracking. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Particle Detectors and Accelerators)

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31 pages, 2673 KB

Open AccessReview

Electrode Configurations for Electrical Bioimpedance-Based Pulse Wave Signal Acquisition: A Narrative Review

by Margus Metshein

Instruments 2026, 10(2), 26; https://doi.org/10.3390/instruments10020026 - 3 May 2026

Abstract

The pulsatile modulation of arterial blood carries essential information about the cardiovascular system and cardiac function—information that can be extracted through appropriate signal-processing algorithms. As wearable technologies are increasingly integrated into everyday life, measurement methods are required to be non-invasive and compact in [...] Read more.

The pulsatile modulation of arterial blood carries essential information about the cardiovascular system and cardiac function—information that can be extracted through appropriate signal-processing algorithms. As wearable technologies are increasingly integrated into everyday life, measurement methods are required to be non-invasive and compact in scale. Electrical bioimpedance (EBI) methods meet these wearability criteria well; however, they introduce uncertainties associated with the electrode–skin interface. This paper presents a targeted overview of electrode configurations for EBI-based pulse wave signal acquisition, focusing on non-invasive solutions suitable for wearable devices. Electrode configurations are examined with respect to major peripheral arteries in the human body that are accessible at the skin surface and suitable for regional impedance cardiography. The review includes a carefully selected set of references, drawing on both research literature and patent descriptions, and discusses the primary differences in how electrode configurations are presented across these sources. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Instrumentation and Measurement Methods for Industry 4.0 and IoT)

12 pages, 2330 KB

Open AccessArticle

A Helium Ion Linear Accelerator Optimised for Astatine Production

by Maurizio Vretenar, Alessandra Lombardi and Lazar Nikitovic

Instruments 2026, 10(2), 25; https://doi.org/10.3390/instruments10020025 - 2 May 2026

Abstract

This paper presents the design of a linear accelerator optimised for the production of astatine-211, one of the most effective theragnostics isotopes for targeted alpha therapy of cancer (TAT). When attached to a carrier molecule that selectively binds to cancer cells, this powerful [...] Read more.

This paper presents the design of a linear accelerator optimised for the production of astatine-211, one of the most effective theragnostics isotopes for targeted alpha therapy of cancer (TAT). When attached to a carrier molecule that selectively binds to cancer cells, this powerful alpha emitter enables highly localised cell damage. The 11 m long linac is designed to accelerate an average current of up to 2 mA of fully stripped helium ions to 28.4 MeV, the energy required for ²¹¹At production on a bismuth target. The accelerator comprises an alpha particle source, a compact Radio Frequency Quadrupole (RFQ), and a Quasi-Alvarez Drift Tube Linac (QA-DTL). Compared with conventional cyclotron-based solutions, the proposed design provides higher beam current for increased isotope yield, together with reduced beam losses and activation. In addition, compared with a standard Drift Tube Linac (DTL) configuration, the adoption of a QA-DTL structure enables more compact dimensions and improved power efficiency. Full article

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15 pages, 1734 KB

Open AccessArticle

Systematic Characterisation and Non-Linear Response Correction of SiPMs Using the Single-Step Method for High-Precision Calorimetry

by Lukas Brinkmann, Massimiliano Antonello, Erika Garutti and Joern Schwandt

Instruments 2026, 10(2), 24; https://doi.org/10.3390/instruments10020024 - 24 Apr 2026

Abstract

Silicon photomultipliers (SiPMs) are vital for calorimetric applications in high-energy physics and medical imaging due to their high gain, compactness, and insensitivity to magnetic fields. However, their finite pixel count induces non-linear response behaviour at high photon fluxes, affecting energy resolution and systematic [...] Read more.

Silicon photomultipliers (SiPMs) are vital for calorimetric applications in high-energy physics and medical imaging due to their high gain, compactness, and insensitivity to magnetic fields. However, their finite pixel count induces non-linear response behaviour at high photon fluxes, affecting energy resolution and systematic accuracy. This work presents a comprehensive methodology to characterise SiPM response functions and derive correction curves using a single-step laser-based measurement approach. Three SiPMs with varying pixel sizes (15, 25 and 50 µm) are studied under controlled temperature conditions, with response functions extracted across different overvoltages and integration windows. The correction method, independent of precise light source calibration, effectively linearises the response up to saturation levels exceeding 100% of the pixel count, achieving deviations of the order of 3% across a broad operational parameter space, and outperforming the traditional calibration model. The analysis demonstrates minimal dependence of the correction on temperature, overvoltage, and pixel size, indicating universal applicability. These findings enhance SiPM performance in high-energy calorimetry and offer a practical framework for improving detector linearity and dynamic range extensions in large-scale applications. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Silicon Photomultiplier-Based Systems for Particle and Radiation Detection)

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21 pages, 12324 KB

Open AccessArticle

Wireless Instrumented Ankle Foot Orthosis (AFO) for Gait Cycle Monitoring

by Soufiane Mahraoui and Mauro Serpelloni

Instruments 2026, 10(2), 23; https://doi.org/10.3390/instruments10020023 - 22 Apr 2026

Abstract

Ankle–foot orthoses (AFOs) are widely used in the rehabilitation of patients with neurological or musculoskeletal disorders. However, treatment outcomes may be influenced by incorrect use of the device or by inappropriate orthosis selection. Since many types of AFOs are available, differing in materials, [...] Read more.

Ankle–foot orthoses (AFOs) are widely used in the rehabilitation of patients with neurological or musculoskeletal disorders. However, treatment outcomes may be influenced by incorrect use of the device or by inappropriate orthosis selection. Since many types of AFOs are available, differing in materials, stiffness, and geometry, an objective evaluation tool can support clinical decision-making. This work presents the design, development, and characterization of an instrumented AFO able to quantify relevant gait parameters in an objective way. The proposed device integrates three measurement modalities in a compact wearable structure. Two longitudinal strain gauges estimate ankle plantar- and dorsiflexion angles. Two force-sensitive elements detect foot–ground contact and allow identification of stance and swing phases of the gait cycle. A single inertial measurement unit (IMU) is used to measure lateral shank inclination. The strain-gauge-based angle estimation was validated against a gold-standard motion capture system, achieving a root mean square error of approximately 1.6 degrees and showing higher accuracy than the IMU for plantar/dorsiflexion measurement, while maintaining a simple electronic architecture. The force sensors were validated using a force platform and demonstrated reliable detection of loading and unloading events. Monitoring lateral inclination through the single IMU provides additional information related to balance and potential fall risk. Data are transmitted via Bluetooth Low Energy (BLE) to a custom Python-based application for real-time visualization and recording. Overall, the results validate the electronic instrumentation and demonstrate reliable system performance, indicating that the proposed instrumented AFO represents a promising platform for objective gait assessment and future clinical applications. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Instrumentation and Measurement Methods for Industry 4.0 and IoT)

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15 pages, 5175 KB

Open AccessArticle

Design and Characterization of a Low-Current Compact Extraction and Matching System for a High-Frequency RFQ in Medical Applications

by Aristeidis Mamaras, Francesco Di Lorenzo, Alessandra Lombardi, Eleonora Pasino and Dimitrios Sampsonidis

Instruments 2026, 10(2), 22; https://doi.org/10.3390/instruments10020022 - 6 Apr 2026

Abstract

A low-current compact extraction and matching system has been designed and experimentally tested to evaluate its capability for direct proton injection of 15 keV into a 750 MHz radiofrequency quadrupole for medical applications. The design methodology combined 2D and 3D layouts, supported by [...] Read more.

A low-current compact extraction and matching system has been designed and experimentally tested to evaluate its capability for direct proton injection of 15 keV into a 750 MHz radiofrequency quadrupole for medical applications. The design methodology combined 2D and 3D layouts, supported by detailed electrostatic simulations. First experimental results are reported, including beam current characterization and irradiation measurements under varying operating conditions. These results are benchmarked against simulation data to provide a preliminary evaluation of system performance. Ongoing efforts focus on extending the experimental campaign to consolidate these findings. A comparative study with a gridded-lens-based extraction and transport system is also being conducted to achieve reliable matching of high-quality beams to high-frequency RFQs for clinical implementation. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Compact Accelerators)

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17 pages, 20220 KB

Open AccessArticle

Observational Technological Innovations and Future Development of the Lijiang Coronagraph

by Xuefei Zhang, Yu Liu, Tengfei Song, Mingyu Zhao, Xiaobo Li, Mingzhe Sun, Feiyang Sha and Xiande Liu

Instruments 2026, 10(2), 21; https://doi.org/10.3390/instruments10020021 - 3 Apr 2026

Abstract

As a core ground-based coronal observation facility in the low-latitude and high-altitude regions of China, the Lijiang Coronagraph takes advantage of the natural endowments of the Lijiang Astronomical Observation Station, such as an altitude of 3200 m and low atmospheric turbulence. It has [...] Read more.

As a core ground-based coronal observation facility in the low-latitude and high-altitude regions of China, the Lijiang Coronagraph takes advantage of the natural endowments of the Lijiang Astronomical Observation Station, such as an altitude of 3200 m and low atmospheric turbulence. It has gone through a complete development process from introduction through Chinese–Japanese cooperation to independent innovation and iteration. This paper systematically summarizes the core technological innovation achievements of this facility, including the upgrade of the automatic operating system, the integration of the dual-band observation system, the stray light suppression technology based on the image difference method before and after cleaning, and the high-precision image calibration and registration technology. These innovations have significantly improved observation efficiency and data quality, laying a solid foundation for high-quality observations. At the scientific research level, the observation data reveal that 1.1 R_⊙ (solar radius) is a highly correlated region between coronal green line brightness and magnetic field intensity. This study also confirms a strong correlation between the coronal green line and the SDO/AIA 211 Å extreme ultraviolet band (correlation coefficient: 0.89–0.99), which can support the research on early warning of Coronal Mass Ejections (CMEs). These achievements provide key data support for the verification of coronal heating mechanisms and the exploration of the origin of the slow solar wind. The technical experience accumulated from the Lijiang Coronagraph has not only laid a solid foundation for the research and development of China’s next-generation large-aperture coronagraphs, but also facilitated and accelerated substantial progress in China’s technical capabilities for low coronal observation, enabling the country to establish internationally parallel competitive capabilities in this field. This system has also become an important part of the global coronal observation network. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Instruments for Astroparticle Physics)

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13 pages, 2948 KB

Open AccessArticle

Cyclotron Production and Purification of ⁸³Sr as a ⁹⁰Sr Substitute for Positron Emission Tomography (PET)

by Marcel Lindemann, Jann Schöngart, Jan Štursa and Karsten Franke

Instruments 2026, 10(2), 20; https://doi.org/10.3390/instruments10020020 - 30 Mar 2026

Abstract

Radioactive contaminations in soil, which originate from nuclear power production, nuclear weapon testing, or uncontrolled release, are of great environmental concern. One of the major fission product contaminants is ⁹⁰Sr, whose high mobility demands a method to track contamination pathways and remediation [...] Read more.

Radioactive contaminations in soil, which originate from nuclear power production, nuclear weapon testing, or uncontrolled release, are of great environmental concern. One of the major fission product contaminants is ⁹⁰Sr, whose high mobility demands a method to track contamination pathways and remediation processes. Positron emission tomography (PET) is a valuable tool for the required studies. As a β⁻/γ-emitter, ⁹⁰Sr is not suitable for PET, which requires β⁺-emitters. As an alternative, ⁸³Sr, with a 12% intensity of β⁺-emission and a half-life of 32.4 h, is an appropriate PET substitute for ⁹⁰Sr. We produced ⁸³Sr with an enriched target of [⁸⁵Rb]RbCl in a ⁸⁵Rb(p,3n)⁸³Sr reaction. The target material was bombarded with 36.22 MeV protons (ø 1.78 µA, 315 min), at a solid target station at the cyclotron U-120M (NPI CAS). The irradiated target (1.5 GBq) was dissolved in water, evaporated to dryness, redissolved in nitric acid, and transferred onto a Sr-selective cartridge (Sr-SpecTM, TRISKEM, France). Following target material wash out, ⁸³Sr elution with water, solvent evaporation, and reformulation (in dilute nitric acid) yielded 1.2 GBq (82% radiochemical extraction efficiency, non-decay-corrected) of an ⁸³Sr-solution. The easy and fast method is able to produce non-carrier-added ⁸³Sr with high radionuclidic purity. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Selected Papers from the 16th Workshop of the European Network of Research Cyclotrons (CYCLEUR 2025))

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20 pages, 13968 KB

Open AccessArticle

Design and Characterization of the POKERINO Prototype for the POKER/NA64 Experiment at CERN

by Andrei Antonov, Pietro Bisio, Mariangela Bondì, Andrea Celentano, Anna Marini and Luca Marsicano

Instruments 2026, 10(2), 19; https://doi.org/10.3390/instruments10020019 - 27 Mar 2026

Abstract

The NA64 experiment at the CERN H4 beamline recently started a high-energy positron-beam program to search for light dark matter particles through a thick-target, missing-energy measurement. To fulfill the energy resolution requirement of the physics measurement [...] Read more.

The NA64 experiment at the CERN H4 beamline recently started a high-energy positron-beam program to search for light dark matter particles through a thick-target, missing-energy measurement. To fulfill the energy resolution requirement of the physics measurement

σ_{E} / E ≃ 2.5 % / \sqrt{E [GeV]} \oplus 0.5 %

and cope with the constraints and performance requests of the NA64 setup, a new high-resolution homogeneous electromagnetic calorimeter PKR-CAL has been designed. The detector is based on PbWO₄ crystals, each read by multiple SiPM sensors to maximize the light collection. The PKR-CAL design has been optimized to mitigate and control unavoidable SiPM saturation effects at high light levels, as well as to minimize the gain fluctuations induced by instantaneous variations of the H4 beam intensity. The R&D program culminated in the construction of a small-scale prototype, POKERINO. In this work, we present the results from the experimental characterization campaign of the POKERINO, aiming at demonstrating that the obtained performances are compatible with the application requirements. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Silicon Photomultiplier-Based Systems for Particle and Radiation Detection)

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33 pages, 35113 KB

Open AccessFeature PaperArticle

Operation of a Modular 3D-Pixelated Liquid Argon Time-Projection Chamber in a Neutrino Beam

by S. Abbaslu, A. Abed Abud, R. Acciarri, L. P. Accorsi, M. A. Acero, M. R. Adames, G. Adamov, M. Adamowski, C. Adriano, F. Akbar, F. Alemanno, N. S. Alex, K. Allison, M. Alrashed, A. Alton, R. Alvarez, T. Alves, A. Aman, H. Amar, P. Amedo, J. Anderson, D. A. Andrade, C. Andreopoulos, M. Andreotti, M. P. Andrews, F. Andrianala, S. Andringa, F. Anjarazafy, S. Ansarifard, D. Antic, M. Antoniassi, A. Aranda-Fernandez, L. Arellano, E. Arrieta Diaz, M. A. Arroyave, M. Arteropons, J. Asaadi, M. Ascencio, A. Ashkenazi, D. Asner, L. Asquith, E. Atkin, D. Auguste, A. Aurisano, V. Aushev, D. Autiero, D. Ávila Gómez, M. B. Azam, F. Azfar, A. Back, J. J. Back, Y. Bae, I. Bagaturia, L. Bagby, D. Baigarashev, S. Balasubramanian, A. Balboni, P. Baldi, W. Baldini, J. Baldonedo, B. Baller, B. Bambah, F. Barao, D. Barbu, G. Barenboim, P. B̃arham Alzás, G. J. Barker, W. Barkhouse, G. Barr, A. Barros, N. Barros, D. Barrow, J. L. Barrow, A. Basharina-Freshville, A. Bashyal, V. Basque, M. Bassani, D. Basu, C. Batchelor, L. Bathe-Peters, J. B. R. Battat, F. Battisti, J. Bautista, F. Bay, J. L. L. Bazo Alba, J. F. Beacom, E. Bechetoille, B. Behera, E. Belchior, B. Bell, G. Bell, L. Bellantoni, G. Bellettini, V. Bellini, O. Beltramello, A. Belyaev, C. Benitez Montiel, D. Benjamin, F. Bento Neves, J. Berger, S. Berkman, J. Bermudez, J. Bernal, P. Bernardini, A. Bersani, E. Bertholet, E. Bertolini, S. Bertolucci, M. Betancourt, A. Betancur Rodríguez, Y. Bezawada, A. T. Bezerra, A. Bhat, V. Bhatnagar, M. Bhattacharjee, S. Bhattacharjee, M. Bhattacharya, S. Bhuller, B. Bhuyan, S. Biagi, J. Bian, K. Biery, B. Bilki, M. Bishai, A. Blake, F. D. Blaszczyk, G. C. Blazey, E. Blucher, B. Bogart, J. Boissevain, S. Bolognesi, T. Bolton, L. Bomben, M. Bonesini, C. Bonilla-Diaz, A. Booth, F. Boran, R. Borges Merlo, N. Bostan, G. Botogoske, B. Bottino, R. Bouet, J. Boza, J. Bracinik, B. Brahma, D. Brailsford, F. Bramati, A. Branca, A. Brandt, J. Bremer, S. J. Brice, V. Brio, C. Brizzolari, C. Bromberg, J. Brooke, A. Bross, G. Brunetti, M. B. Brunetti, N. Buchanan, H. Budd, J. Buergi, A. Bundock, D. Burgardt, S. Butchart, G. Caceres V., R. Calabrese, R. Calabrese, J. Calcutt, L. Calivers, E. Calvo, A. Caminata, A. F. Camino, W. Campanelli, A. Campani, A. Campos Benitez, N. Canci, J. Capó, I. Caracas, D. Caratelli, D. Carber, J. M. Carceller, G. Carini, B. Carlus, M. F. Carneiro, P. Carniti, I. Caro Terrazas, H. Carranza, N. Carrara, L. Carroll, T. Carroll, A. Carter, E. Casarejos, D. Casazza, J. F. Castaño Forero, F. A. Castaño, C. Castromonte, E. Catano-Mur, C. Cattadori, F. Cavalier, F. Cavanna, S. Centro, G. Cerati, C. Cerna, A. Cervelli, A. Cervera Villanueva, J. Chakrani, M. Chalifour, A. Chappell, A. Chatterjee, B. Chauhan, C. Chavez Barajas, H. Chen, M. Chen, W. C. Chen, Y. Chen, Z. Chen, D. Cherdack, S. S. Chhibra, C. Chi, F. Chiapponi, R. Chirco, N. Chitirasreemadam, K. Cho, S. Choate, G. Choi, D. Chokheli, P. S. Chong, B. Chowdhury, D. Christian, M. Chung, E. Church, M. F. Cicala, M. Cicerchia, V. Cicero, R. Ciolini, P. Clarke, G. Cline, A. G. Cocco, J. A. B. Coelho, A. Cohen, J. Collazo, J. Collot, H. Combs, J. M. Conrad, L. Conti, T. Contreras, M. Convery, K. Conway, S. Copello, P. Cova, C. Cox, L. Cremonesi, J. I. Crespo-Anadón, M. Crisler, E. Cristaldo, J. Crnkovic, G. Crone, R. Cross, A. Cudd, C. Cuesta, Y. Cui, F. Curciarello, D. Cussans, J. Dai, O. Dalager, W. Dallaway, R. D’Amico, H. da Motta, Z. A. Dar, R. Darby, L. Da Silva Peres, Q. David, G. S. Davies, S. Davini, J. Dawson, R. De Aguiar, P. Debbins, M. P. Decowski, A. de Gouvêa, P. C. De Holanda, P. De Jong, P. Del Amo Sanchez, G. De Lauretis, A. Delbart, M. Delgado, A. Dell’Acqua, G. Delle Monache, N. Delmonte, P. De Lurgio, R. Demario, G. De Matteis, J. R. T. de Mello Neto, A. P. A. De Mendonca, D. M. DeMuth, S. Dennis, C. Densham, P. Denton, G. W. Deptuch, A. De Roeck, V. De Romeri, J. P. Detje, J. Devine, K. Dhanmeher, R. Dharmapalan, M. Dias, A. Diaz, J. S. Díaz, F. Díaz, F. Di Capua, A. Di Domenico, S. Di Domizio, S. Di Falco, L. Di Giulio, P. Ding, L. Di Noto, E. Diociaiuti, G. Di Sciascio, V. Di Silvestre, C. Distefano, R. Di Stefano, R. Diurba, M. Diwan, Z. Djurcic, S. Dolan, M. Dolce, M. J. Dolinski, D. Domenici, S. Dominguez, S. Donati, S. Doran, D. Douglas, T. A. Doyle, F. Drielsma, D. Duchesneau, K. Duffy, K. Dugas, P. Dunne, B. Dutta, D. A. Dwyer, A. S. Dyshkant, S. Dytman, M. Eads, A. Earle, S. Edayath, D. Edmunds, J. Eisch, W. Emark, P. Englezos, A. Ereditato, T. Erjavec, C. O. Escobar, J. J. Evans, E. Ewart, A. C. Ezeribe, K. Fahey, A. Falcone, M. Fani’, D. Faragher, C. Farnese, Y. Farzan, J. Felix, Y. Feng, M. Ferreira da Silva, G. Ferry, E. Fialova, L. Fields, P. Filip, A. Filkins, F. Filthaut, G. Fiorillo, M. Fiorini, S. Fogarty, W. Foreman, J. Fowler, J. Franc, K. Francis, D. Franco, J. Franklin, J. Freeman, J. Fried, A. Friedland, M. Fucci, S. Fuess, I. K. Furic, K. Furman, A. P. Furmanski, R. Gaba, A. Gabrielli, A. M Gago, F. Galizzi, H. Gallagher, M. Galli, N. Gallice, V. Galymov, E. Gamberini, T. Gamble, R. Gandhi, S. Ganguly, F. Gao, S. Gao, D. Garcia-Gamez, M. Á. García-Peris, S. Gardiner, A. Gartman, A. Gauch, P. Gauzzi, S. Gazzana, G. Ge, N. Geffroy, B. Gelli, S. Gent, L. Gerlach, A. Ghosh, T. Giammaria, D. Gibin, I. Gil-Botella, A. Gioiosa, S. Giovannella, A. K. Giri, V. Giusti, D. Gnani, O. Gogota, S. Gollapinni, K. Gollwitzer, R. A. Gomes, L. S. Gomez Fajardo, D. Gonzalez-Diaz, J. Gonzalez-Santome, M. C. Goodman, S. Goswami, C. Gotti, J. Goudeau, C. Grace, E. Gramellini, R. Gran, P. Granger, C. Grant, D. R. Gratieri, G. Grauso, P. Green, S. Greenberg, W. C. Griffith, K. Grzelak, L. Gu, W. Gu, V. Guarino, M. Guarise, R. Guenette, M. Guerzoni, D. Guffanti, A. Guglielmi, F. Y. Guo, A. Gupta, V. Gupta, G. Gurung, D. Gutierrez, P. Guzowski, M. M. Guzzo, S. Gwon, A. Habig, L. Haegel, R. Hafeji, L. Hagaman, A. Hahn, J. Hakenmüller, T. Hamernik, P. Hamilton, J. Hancock, M. Handley, F. Happacher, B. Harris, D. A. Harris, L. Harris, A. L. Hart, J. Hartnell, T. Hartnett, J. Harton, T. Hasegawa, C. M. Hasnip, R. Hatcher, S. Hawkins, J. Hays, M. He, A. Heavey, K. M. Heeger, A. Heindel, J. Heise, P. Hellmuth, L. Henderson, K. Herner, V. Hewes, A. Higuera, A. Himmel, E. Hinkle, L. R. Hirsch, J. Ho, J. Hoefken Zink, J. Hoff, A. Holin, T. Holvey, C. Hong, S. Horiuchi, G. A. Horton-Smith, R. Hosokawa, T. Houdy, B. Howard, R. Howell, I. Hristova, M. S. Hronek, H. Hua, J. Huang, R. G. Huang, X. Huang, Z. Hulcher, A. Hussain, G. Iles, N. Ilic, A. M. Iliescu, R. Illingworth, G. Ingratta, A. Ioannisian, M. Ismerio Oliveira, C. M. Jackson, V. Jain, E. James, W. Jang, B. Jargowsky, D. Jena, I. Jentz, C. Jiang, J. Jiang, A. Jipa, J. H. Jo, F. R. Joaquim, W. Johnson, C. Jollet, R. Jones, N. Jovancevic, M. Judah, C. K. Jung, K. Y. Jung, T. Junk, Y. Jwa, M. Kabirnezhad, A. C. Kaboth, I. Kadenko, O. Kalikulov, D. Kalra, M. Kandemir, S. Kar, G. Karagiorgi, G. Karaman, A. Karcher, Y. Karyotakis, S. P. Kasetti, L. Kashur, A. Kauther, N. Kazaryan, L. Ke, E. Kearns, P. T. Keener, K. J. Kelly, R. Keloth, E. Kemp, O. Kemularia, Y. Kermaidic, W. Ketchum, S. H. Kettell, N. Khan, A. Khvedelidze, D. Kim, J. Kim, M. J. Kim, S. Kim, B. King, M. King, M. Kirby, A. Kish, J. Klein, J. Kleykamp, A. Klustova, T. Kobilarcik, L. Koch, K. Koehler, L. W. Koerner, D. H. Koh, M. Kordosky, T. Kosc, V. A. Kostelecký, I. Kotler, W. Krah, R. Kralik, M. Kramer, F. Krennrich, T. Kroupova, S. Kubota, M. Kubu, V. A. Kudryavtsev, G. Kufatty, S. Kuhlmann, A. Kumar, J. Kumar, M. Kumar, P. Kumar, P. Kumar, S. Kumaran, J. Kunzmann, V. Kus, T. Kutter, J. Kvasnicka, T. Labree, M. Lachat, T. Lackey, I. Lalău, A. Lambert, B. J. Land, C. E. Lane, N. Lane, K. Lang, T. Langford, M. Langstaff, F. Lanni, J. Larkin, P. Lasorak, D. Last, A. Laundrie, G. Laurenti, E. Lavaut, H. Lay, I. Lazanu, R. LaZur, M. Lazzaroni, S. Leardini, J. Learned, T. LeCompte, G. Lehmann Miotto, R. Lehnert, M. Leitner, H. Lemoine, D. Leon Silverio, L. M. Lepin, J.-Y. Li, S. W. Li, Y. Li, R. Lima, C. S. Lin, D. Lindebaum, S. Linden, R. A. Lineros, A. Lister, B. R. Littlejohn, J. Liu, Y. Liu, S. Lockwitz, I. Lomidze, K. Long, J. Lopez, I. López de Rego, N. López-March, J. M. LoSecco, A. Lozano Sanchez, X.-G. Lu, K. B. Luk, X. Luo, E. Luppi, A. A. Machado, P. Machado, C. T. Macias, J. R. Macier, M. MacMahon, S. Magill, C. Magueur, K. Mahn, A. Maio, N. Majeed, A. Major, K. Majumdar, A. Malige, S. Mameli, M. Man, R. C. Mandujano, J. Maneira, S. Manly, K. Manolopoulos, M. Manrique Plata, S. Manthey Corchado, L. Manzanillas-Velez, E. Mao, M. Marchan, A. Marchionni, D. Marfatia, C. Mariani, J. Maricic, F. Marinho, A. D. Marino, T. Markiewicz, F. Das Chagas Marques, M. Marshak, C. M. Marshall, J. Marshall, L. Martina, J. Martín-Albo, D. A. Martinez Caicedo, M. Martinez-Casales, F. Martínez López, S. Martynenko, V. Mascagna, A. Mastbaum, M. Masud, F. Matichard, G. Matteucci, J. Matthews, C. Mauger, N. Mauri, K. Mavrokoridis, I. Mawby, F. Mayhew, T. McAskill, N. McConkey, B. McConnell, K. S. McFarland, C. McGivern, C. McGrew, A. McNab, C. McNulty, J. Mead, L. Meazza, V. C. N. Meddage, A. Medhi, M. Mehmood, B. Mehta, P. Mehta, F. Mei, P. Melas, L. Mellet, T. C. D. Melo, O. Mena, H. Mendez, D. P. Méndez, A. Menegolli, G. Meng, A. C. E. A. Mercuri, A. Meregaglia, M. D. Messier, S. Metallo, W. Metcalf, M. Mewes, H. Meyer, T. Miao, J. Micallef, A. Miccoli, G. Michna, R. Milincic, F. Miller, G. Miller, W. Miller, A. Minotti, L. Miralles Verge, C. Mironov, S. Miscetti, C. S. Mishra, P. Mishra, S. R. Mishra, D. Mladenov, I. Mocioiu, A. Mogan, R. Mohanta, T. A. Mohayai, N. Mokhov, J. Molina, L. Molina Bueno, E. Montagna, A. Montanari, C. Montanari, D. Montanari, D. Montanino, L. M. Montaño Zetina, M. Mooney, A. F. Moor, M. Moore, Z. Moore, D. Moreno, G. Moreno-Granados, O. Moreno-Palacios, L. Morescalchi, C. Morris, E. Motuk, C. A. Moura, G. Mouster, W. Mu, L. Mualem, J. Mueller, M. Muether, A. Muir, Y. Mukhamejanov, A. Mukhamejanova, M. Mulhearn, D. Munford, L. J. Munteanu, H. Muramatsu, J. Muraz, M. Murphy, T. Murphy, A. Mytilinaki, J. Nachtman, Y. Nagai, S. Nagu, D. Naples, S. Narita, J. Nava, A. Navrer-Agasson, N. Nayak, M. Nebot-Guinot, A. Nehm, J. K. Nelson, O. Neogi, J. Nesbit, M. Nessi, D. Newbold, M. Newcomer, D. Newmark, R. Nichol, F. Nicolas-Arnaldos, A. Nielsen, A. Nikolica, J. Nikolov, E. Niner, X. Ning, K. Nishimura, A. Norman, A. Norrick, P. Novella, A. Nowak, J. A. Nowak, M. Oberling, J. P. Ochoa-Ricoux, S. Oh, S. B. Oh, A. Olivier, T. Olson, Y. Onel, Y. Onishchuk, A. Oranday, M. Osbiston, J. A. Osorio Vélez, L. O’Sullivan, L. Otiniano Ormachea, L. Pagani, G. Palacio, O. Palamara, S. Palestini, J. M. Paley, M. Pallavicini, C. Palomares, S. Pan, M. Panareo, P. Panda, V. Pandey, W. Panduro Vazquez, E. Pantic, V. Paolone, A. Papadopoulou, R. Papaleo, D. Papoulias, S. Paramesvaran, J. Park, S. Parke, S. Parsa, S. Parveen, M. Parvu, D. Pasciuto, S. Pascoli, L. Pasqualini, J. Pasternak, G. Patel, J. L. Paton, C. Patrick, L. Patrizii, R. B. Patterson, T. Patzak, A. Paudel, J. Paul, L. Paulucci, Z. Pavlovic, G. Pawloski, D. Payne, A. Peake, V. Pec, E. Pedreschi, S. J. M. Peeters, W. Pellico, E. Pennacchio, A. Penzo, O. L. G. Peres, Y. F. Perez Gonzalez, L. Pérez-Molina, C. Pernas, J. Perry, D. Pershey, G. Pessina, G. Petrillo, C. Petta, R. Petti, M. Pfaff, V. Pia, G. M. Piacentino, L. Pickering, L. Pierini, F. Pietropaolo, V. L. Pimentel, G. Pinaroli, S. Pincha, J. Pinchault, K. Pitts, P. Plesniak, K. Pletcher, K. Plows, C. Pollack, T. Pollmann, F. Pompa, X. Pons, N. Poonthottathil, V. Popov, F. Poppi, J. Porter, L. G. Porto Paixão, M. Potekhin, M. Pozzato, R. Pradhan, T. Prakash, M. Prest, F. Psihas, D. Pugnere, D. Pullia, X. Qian, J. Queen, J. L. Raaf, M. Rabelhofer, V. Radeka, J. Rademacker, F. Raffaelli, A. Rafique, A. Rahe, S. Rajagopalan, M. Rajaoalisoa, I. Rakhno, L. Rakotondravohitra, M. A. Ralaikoto, L. Ralte, M. A. Ramirez Delgado, B. Ramson, S. S. Randriamanampisoa, A. Rappoldi, G. Raselli, T. Rath, P. Ratoff, R. Ray, H. Razafinime, R. F. Razakamiandra, E. M. Rea, J. S. Real, B. Rebel, R. Rechenmacher, J. Reichenbacher, S. D. Reitzner, E. Renner, S. Repetto, S. Rescia, F. Resnati, C. Reynolds, M. Ribas, S. Riboldi, C. Riccio, G. Riccobene, J. S. Ricol, M. Rigan, A. Rikalo, E. V. Rincón, A. Ritchie-Yates, D. Rivera, A. Robert, A. Roberts, E. Robles, M. Roda, D. Rodas Rodríguez, M. J. O. Rodrigues, J. Rodriguez Rondon, S. Rosauro-Alcaraz, P. Rosier, D. Ross, M. Rossella, M. Ross-Lonergan, T. Rotsy, N. Roy, P. Roy, P. Roy, C. Rubbia, D. Rudik, A. Ruggeri, G. Ruiz Ferreira, K. Rushiya, B. Russell, S. Sacerdoti, N. Saduyev, S. K. Sahoo, N. Sahu, S. Sakhiyev, P. Sala, G. Salmoria, S. Samanta, M. C. Sanchez, A. Sánchez-Castillo, P. Sanchez-Lucas, D. A. Sanders, S. Sanfilippo, D. Santoro, N. Saoulidou, P. Sapienza, I. Sarcevic, I. Sarra, G. Savage, V. Savinov, G. Scanavini, A. Scanu, A. Scaramelli, T. Schefke, H. Schellman, S. Schifano, P. Schlabach, D. Schmitz, A. W. Schneider, K. Scholberg, A. Schroeder, A. Schukraft, B. Schuld, S. Schwartz, A. Segade, E. Segreto, A. Selyunin, C. R. Senise, J. Sensenig, S. H. Seo, D. Seppela, M. H. Shaevitz, P. Shanahan, P. Sharma, R. Kumar, S. Sharma Poudel, K. Shaw, T. Shaw, K. Shchablo, J. Shen, C. Shepherd-Themistocleous, J. Shi, W. Shi, S. Shin, S. Shivakoti, A. Shmakov, I. Shoemaker, D. Shooltz, R. Shrock, M. Siden, J. Silber, L. Simard, J. Sinclair, G. Sinev, Jaydip Singh, J. Singh, L. Singh, P. Singh, V. Singh, S. Singh Chauhan, R. Sipos, C. Sironneau, G. Sirri, K. Siyeon, K. Skarpaas, J. Smedley, J. Smith, P. Smith, J. Smolik, M. Smy, M. Snape, E. L. Snider, P. Snopok, M. Soares Nunes, H. Sobel, M. Soderberg, H. Sogarwal, C. J. Solano Salinas, S. Söldner-Rembold, N. Solomey, V. Solovov, W. E. Sondheim, M. Sorbara, M. Sorel, J. Soto-Oton, A. Sousa, K. Soustruznik, D. Souza Correia, F. Spinella, J. Spitz, N. J. C. Spooner, D. Stalder, M. Stancari, L. Stanco, J. Steenis, R. Stein, H. M. Steiner, A. F. Steklain Lisbôa, J. Stewart, B. Stillwell, J. Stock, T. Stokes, T. Strauss, L. Strigari, A. Stuart, J. G. Suarez, J. Subash, A. Surdo, L. Suter, A. Sutton, K. Sutton, Y. Suvorov, R. Svoboda, S. K. Swain, C. Sweeney, B. Szczerbinska, A. M. Szelc, A. Sztuc, A. Taffara, N. Talukdar, J. Tamara, H. A. Tanaka, S. Tang, N. Taniuchi, A. M. Tapia Casanova, A. Tapper, S. Tariq, E. Tatar, R. Tayloe, A. M. Teklu, K. Tellez Giron Flores, J. Tena Vidal, P. Tennessen, M. Tenti, K. Terao, F. Terranova, G. Testera, T. Thakore, A. Thea, S. Thomas, A. Thompson, C. Thorpe, S. C. Timm, E. Tiras, V. Tishchenko, S. Tiwari, N. Todorović, L. Tomassetti, A. Tonazzo, D. Torbunov, D. Torres Muñoz, M. Torti, M. Tortola, Y. Torun, N. Tosi, D. Totani, M. Toups, C. Touramanis, V. Trabattoni, D. Tran, J. Trevor, E. Triller, S. Trilov, D. Trotta, J. Truchon, D. Truncali, W. H. Trzaska, Y. Tsai, Y.-T. Tsai, Z. Tsamalaidze, K. V. Tsang, N. Tsverava, S. Z. Tu, S. Tufanli, C. Tunnell, J. Turner, M. Tuzi, M. Tzanov, M. A. Uchida, J. Ureña González, J. Urheim, T. Usher, H. Utaegbulam, S. Uzunyan, M. R. Vagins, P. Vahle, G. A. Valdiviesso, E. Valencia, R. Valentim, Z. Vallari, E. Vallazza, J. W. F. Valle, R. Van Berg, D. V. Forero, A. Vannozzi, M. Van Nuland-Troost, F. Varanini, D. Vargas Oliva, N. Vaughan, K. Vaziri, A. Vázquez-Ramos, J. Vega, J. Vences, S. Ventura, A. Verdugo, M. Verzocchi, K. Vetter, M. Vicenzi, H. Vieira de Souza, C. Vignoli, C. Vilela, E. Villa, S. Viola, B. Viren, G. V. Stenico, R. Vizarreta, A. P. Vizcaya Hernandez, S. Vlachos, G. Vorobyev, Q. Vuong, A. V. Waldron, L. Walker, H. Wallace, M. Wallach, J. Walsh, T. Walton, L. Wan, B. Wang, H. Wang, J. Wang, M. H. L. S. Wang, X. Wang, Y. Wang, D. Warner, L. Warsame, M. O. Wascko, D. Waters, A. Watson, K. Wawrowska, A. Weber, C. M. Weber, M. Weber, H. Wei, A. Weinstein, S. Westerdale, M. Wetstein, K. Whalen, A. J. White, L. H. Whitehead, D. Whittington, F. Wieler, J. Wilhlemi, M. J. Wilking, A. Wilkinson, C. Wilkinson, F. Wilson, R. J. Wilson, P. Winter, J. Wolcott, J. Wolfs, T. Wongjirad, A. Wood, K. Wood, E. Worcester, M. Worcester, K. Wresilo, M. Wright, M. Wrobel, S. Wu, W. Wu, Z. Wu, M. Wurm, J. Wyenberg, B. M. Wynne, Y. Xiao, I. Xiotidis, B. Yaeggy, N. Yahlali, E. Yandel, G. Yang, J. Yang, T. Yang, A. Yankelevich, L. Yates, U. Yevarouskaya, K. Yonehara, T. Young, B. Yu, H. Yu, J. Yu, W. Yuan, M. Zabloudil, R. Zaki, J. Zalesak, L. Zambelli, B. Zamorano, A. Zani, O. Zapata, L. Zazueta, G. P. Zeller, J. Zennamo, J. Zettlemoyer, K. Zeug, C. Zhang, S. Zhang, Y. Zhang, L. Zhao, M. Zhao, E. D. Zimmerman, S. Zucchelli, V. Zutshi, R. Zwaska and On behalf of the DUNE Collaboration Show full author list Hide full author list

Instruments 2026, 10(1), 18; https://doi.org/10.3390/instruments10010018 - 17 Mar 2026

Cited by 1

Abstract

The 2x2 Demonstrator, a prototype for the Deep Underground Neutrino Experiment (DUNE) liquid argon (LAr) Near Detector, was exposed to the Neutrinos from the Main Injector (NuMI) neutrino beam at Fermi National Accelerator Laboratory (Fermilab). This detector is a prototype of a new [...] Read more.

The 2x2 Demonstrator, a prototype for the Deep Underground Neutrino Experiment (DUNE) liquid argon (LAr) Near Detector, was exposed to the Neutrinos from the Main Injector (NuMI) neutrino beam at Fermi National Accelerator Laboratory (Fermilab). This detector is a prototype of a new modular design for a liquid argon time-projection chamber (LArTPC), comprising a two-by-two array of four modules, each further segmented into two optically isolated LArTPCs. The 2x2 Demonstrator features a number of pioneering technologies, including a low-profile resistive field shell to establish drift fields, native 3D ionization pixelated imaging, and a high-coverage dielectric light readout system. The 2.4-tonne active mass detector is flanked upstream and downstream by supplemental solid-scintillator tracking planes, repurposed from the MINERvA experiment, which track ionizing particles exiting the argon volume. The antineutrino beam data collected by the detector over a 4.5 day period in 2024 include over 30,000 neutrino interactions in the LAr active volume—the first neutrino interactions reported by a DUNE detector prototype. During its physics-quality run, the 2x2 Demonstrator operated at a nominal drift field of 500 V/cm and maintained good LAr purity, with a stable electron lifetime of approximately 1.25 ms. This paper describes the detector and supporting systems, summarizes the installation and commissioning, and presents the initial validation of collected NuMI beam and off-beam self-triggers. In addition, it highlights observed interactions in the detector volume, including candidate muon antineutrino events. Full article

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35 pages, 28279 KB

Open AccessArticle

Return of Experience in the Commissioning of the New CLS LINAC Injector

by Frédéric Le Pimpec, Ward A. Wurtz, Johannes M. Vogt, Xavier Stragier, Tylor Sové, Jon Stampe, Sheldon Smith, Benjamen Smith, David Schneberger, Xiaofeng Shen, Bryan Schreiner, Brian Schneider, Shervin Saadat, Alex Rosset, Melissa A. Ratzlaff, Chelsea-Lea Randall, Emma Paulson, Alexander Nikolaichuk, Eduardo Nebot del Busto, Tyler Morhart, Thomas McKeith, Karen McKeith, Andrew McCormick, Linda Lin, Rukma Shree Kotha, Iaroslav Kolmakov, Emilio Heredia, Julia Doucette-Garr, Joshua Erikson, Brock Dube, Shawn Carriere, John Campbell, Michael Bree, Grant Bilbrough, Duane Bergstrom, Denis Beauregard, Tonia Batten, Cameron Baribeau, Johannes Hottenbacher, Peter Biegun, Benjamin Bromberger, Kai Dunkel, Marc Grewe, Björn Keune, Wolfgang Korte, Anja Kraemer, Christian Piel and Anne Vanselow Show full author list Hide full author list

Instruments 2026, 10(1), 17; https://doi.org/10.3390/instruments10010017 - 16 Mar 2026

Abstract

After approximately 60 years of service, the 2856 MHz LINAC injector, of the Canadian Light Source (CLS), has been retired to make space for a new 3000.24 MHz LINAC injector, the frequency of which is a multiple of the 500.04 MHz CESR-B-type superconductive [...] Read more.

After approximately 60 years of service, the 2856 MHz LINAC injector, of the Canadian Light Source (CLS), has been retired to make space for a new 3000.24 MHz LINAC injector, the frequency of which is a multiple of the 500.04 MHz CESR-B-type superconductive radio frequency cavity used in the CLS storage ring. The new CLS LINAC injector has been designed and built by RI Research Instruments GmbH. The design is based on their robust S-band RF traveling-wave accelerating structures technology already serving other laboratories in the USA, Australia, Taiwan, Switzerland, and Sweden. In order to reduce cost and optimize space, the CLS has replaced its six accelerating RF structures, each 3.05 m long, delivering a 250 MeV electron beam with three 5.26 m long accelerating structures that will deliver the same beam energy. In order to do so, one RF structure is powered by one klystron modulator, and the last two RF structures receive their RF power from a second klystron modulator that passes through a SLED system. The SLED system multiplies the peak power by a factor of 5 to 6 and is then equally split to power each structure. We are reporting on the issues encountered during the commissioning of this new injector, on how we have tackled them and where the injector, compared to its technical specification, is standing today. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Particle Detectors and Accelerators)

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23 pages, 9651 KB

Open AccessArticle

An Alvarez-Type Linac Configuration for Future Carbon and Helium Ion Therapy Facilities with Parallel Radioisotope Production

by Lazar Nikitovic, Maurizio Vretenar and Toms Torims

Instruments 2026, 10(1), 16; https://doi.org/10.3390/instruments10010016 - 7 Mar 2026

Cited by 1

Abstract

The increasing demand for ion beams heavier than protons—particularly carbon and helium ions—for cancer therapy has driven the development of advanced accelerator technologies. Although proton therapy is well established, its physical properties limit its effectiveness against certain tumor types, thereby motivating the use [...] Read more.

The increasing demand for ion beams heavier than protons—particularly carbon and helium ions—for cancer therapy has driven the development of advanced accelerator technologies. Although proton therapy is well established, its physical properties limit its effectiveness against certain tumor types, thereby motivating the use of ions with higher linear energy transfer (LET) and greater biological effectiveness. This study presents the design of an Alvarez-type linear accelerator configuration that combines a Quasi-Alvarez Drift Tube Linac (QA-DTL) and a conventional Alvarez Drift Tube Linac (DTL). The proposed systems are intended for accelerating and injecting carbon or helium ions into a cancer therapy synchrotron, as well as accelerating helium ions for radioisotope production. The optimized QA-DTL and DTL structures provide a versatile and efficient solution for future particle therapy facilities, addressing the growing demand for compact, high-performance, and multifunctional accelerator systems. The proposed linac configurations are designed to operate at 352.2 MHz and consist of three sections. For accelerating low-velocity ions, the first section is a QA-DTL, which is the only section powered during the injection of carbon or helium ions (depending on configuration) into the therapy synchrotron at the energy of 5 MeV/u. The QA-DTL is followed by two DTL cavities forming the second and third sections, which further accelerate helium ions to energies of up to 7.1 MeV/u and 10 MeV/u, respectively. The energy of 7.1 MeV/u is chosen because it represents the production threshold of ²¹¹At, one of the most promising alpha emitters for targeted alpha therapy. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Compact Accelerators)

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16 pages, 12735 KB

Open AccessArticle

Smartphone-Based Quantitative Measurement of Capillary Refill Time

by Chiho Miyazawa, Masayoshi Shinozaki, Yayoi Miwa, Satoshi Karasawa, Taka-aki Nakada, Yukihiro Nomura and Toshiya Nakaguchi

Instruments 2026, 10(1), 15; https://doi.org/10.3390/instruments10010015 - 3 Mar 2026

Abstract

Capillary refill time (CRT) is widely used in pediatric and emergency medicine as an indicator of peripheral circulation. CRT is defined as the time required for the skin to return to its original color after external compression is applied and then released. In [...] Read more.

Capillary refill time (CRT) is widely used in pediatric and emergency medicine as an indicator of peripheral circulation. CRT is defined as the time required for the skin to return to its original color after external compression is applied and then released. In current clinical practice, however, CRT assessment remains qualitative and relies heavily on the magnitude and consistency of compression applied by the measurer, as well as on subjective visual color perception, which together result in limited measurement reliability. To improve measurement reliability, several quantitative CRT measurement devices have been developed. Nevertheless, these devices are dedicated specifically to CRT measurement, which limits their versatility and complicates clinical implementation. In this study, we developed a simple and quantitative CRT measurement method using a smartphone. Based on skin color changes captured by the rear camera, we proposed a method to assess the adequacy of the applied compression force and implemented an application to calculate CRT. In addition, we investigated an algorithm to reduce the influence of pulse waves observed in the post-release waveform, enabling more stable CRT estimation. Furthermore, a dedicated smartphone case was designed to immobilize the finger during measurement, thereby improving measurement reliability. The feasibility of the proposed method was evaluated by examining agreement with a previously developed CRT measurement device and by assessing intraexaminer reliability, confirming its effectiveness. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Instrumentation and Measurement Methods for Industry 4.0 and IoT)

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18 pages, 2060 KB

Open AccessFeature PaperArticle

Production and Purification of ¹⁶⁵Er from Pressed Ho₂O₃:Al Targets on a 16.5 MeV Cyclotron

by Kristina Søborg Pedersen, Claire Deville, Trine Borre, Ghazal Torabi, Clive Naidoo and Mikael Jensen

Instruments 2026, 10(1), 14; https://doi.org/10.3390/instruments10010014 - 27 Feb 2026

Abstract

Erbium-165 (¹⁶⁵Er) is an Auger electron emitter with 7.2 electrons per decay and very few other emissions, making it an interesting candidate for Auger electron therapy. We present here a procedure for producing ¹⁶⁵Er by the ^natHo(p,n)¹⁶⁵Er [...] Read more.

Erbium-165 (¹⁶⁵Er) is an Auger electron emitter with 7.2 electrons per decay and very few other emissions, making it an interesting candidate for Auger electron therapy. We present here a procedure for producing ¹⁶⁵Er by the ^natHo(p,n)¹⁶⁵Er nuclear reaction on a 16.5 MeV medical cyclotron. The target was prepared by pressing a Ho₂O₃:Al 1:1 (w/w) powder mixture on a Ag disc with a cylindrical depression in the center. With a 0.1 mm Nb foil in front, degrading the energy to 15 MeV, and water cooling at the back of the Ag disc, the target could withstand irradiation at currents up to 45 µA without showing any signs of damage. The beam tolerance of the target was also estimated by calculating the temperature and heat dissipation in the target via the numerical solution of the heat transport equations. For a 180 mg target, the production yield was 12.3 ± 1.9 MBq/µAh. The separation of two neighboring lanthanides is challenging, which led us to study the distribution coefficients for Er and Ho on commercially available LN2 resin for both HNO₃ and HCl eluents. Based on these values, we propose a purification procedure involving two successive LN2 columns for separating the ¹⁶⁵Er from Ho and Al, followed by a small TK221 column to concentrate the final eluate. No radionuclidic impurities were detected, and the chemical impurities found in the final formulation were traces of Ho, Er, Ca, Pb, and Fe. For three different chelators (DOTA, DTPA, and CHX-A″-DTPA), the effective molar activity of the final formulation was measured. The stability of the three complexes formed was also assessed upon incubation in mouse serum for 28 h. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Selected Papers from the 16th Workshop of the European Network of Research Cyclotrons (CYCLEUR 2025))

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13 pages, 2621 KB

Open AccessArticle

Enhanced Optical Triangulation Method for Piezoelectric Stack

by Sinan Köksu and Sedat Nazlıbilek

Instruments 2026, 10(1), 13; https://doi.org/10.3390/instruments10010013 - 26 Feb 2026

Abstract

The precise control of piezoelectric actuators is limited by inherent hysteresis, creep, and nonlinear behavior, which necessitate high-resolution displacement sensing for effective closed-loop operation. Although optical interferometers can achieve nanometer and sub-nanometer resolution, their practical implementation is often constrained by complex optical alignment, [...] Read more.

The precise control of piezoelectric actuators is limited by inherent hysteresis, creep, and nonlinear behavior, which necessitate high-resolution displacement sensing for effective closed-loop operation. Although optical interferometers can achieve nanometer and sub-nanometer resolution, their practical implementation is often constrained by complex optical alignment, sensitivity to environmental disturbances, and limited robustness in high-speed measurements. Optical triangulation sensors offer a more robust and straightforward alternative; however, their resolution is typically insufficient for nanometer-scale displacement measurements. In this study, a novel optical triangulation sensor based on a two-stage geometric optical amplification scheme is proposed for measuring the expansion of piezoelectric stacks. The method relies purely on geometric optical amplification and does not require interferometric techniques or complex signal processing. Using off-the-shelf optical components and an industrial imaging sensor, the proposed system achieves a displacement resolution of 109.6 nm, a repeatability of 74.62 nm, and an accuracy of 98.81% with a maximum error of 207.14 nm under hysteresis measurements. The achieved resolution is primarily limited by the spatial resolution of the camera sensor, indicating that further improvements are possible through optimization of the optical configuration or the use of higher-resolution imaging devices. Owing to its simplicity and robustness, the proposed sensor is well suited for real-time closed-loop control of piezoelectric actuators. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Sensing Technologies and Precision Measurement)

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8 pages, 983 KB

Open AccessArticle

Determination of Super Luminescent Diode Junction Temperature via Static Modulated Fourier-Transform Spectrometer

by Ju Yong Cho and Won Kweon Jang

Instruments 2026, 10(1), 12; https://doi.org/10.3390/instruments10010012 - 8 Feb 2026

Abstract

The accurate and rapid measurement of junction temperature is critical for optimizing the performance and ensuring the longevity of a super luminescent diode. However, due to diverse diode structures, directly measuring and monitoring the junction temperature of a super luminescent diode are often [...] Read more.

The accurate and rapid measurement of junction temperature is critical for optimizing the performance and ensuring the longevity of a super luminescent diode. However, due to diverse diode structures, directly measuring and monitoring the junction temperature of a super luminescent diode are often challenging and impractical. We propose a non-invasive methodology to precisely determine the junction temperature and spectral characteristics of a super luminescent diode. This method utilizes a modified static modulated Fourier-transform spectrometer alongside a generalized analyzing expression derived from Gaussian components. Fast acquisition of spectral information is achieved through the modified static modulated Fourier-transform spectrometer and analyzing method. The proposed model has exceptional accuracy, yielding an average coefficient of determination R² of 0.99 across a range of operating currents and junction temperatures. Our analysis reveals a distinct linear correlation between the extracted fitting parameters—specifically the carrier temperature, the spectral shape parameter and the physical junction temperature. These findings demonstrate that the critical internal physical conditions of the diode can be accurately inferred directly from its measured spectrum, providing a robust tool for device characterization. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Optical and Photonic Instruments)

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18 pages, 2559 KB

Open AccessArticle

Calibration of a Capacitive Coupled Ring Resonator for Non-Invasive Measurement of Wood Moisture Content

by Livio D’Alvia, Ludovica Apa, Emanuele Rizzuto, Erika Pittella and Zaccaria Del Prete

Instruments 2026, 10(1), 11; https://doi.org/10.3390/instruments10010011 - 5 Feb 2026

Abstract

The accurate and non-invasive measurement of moisture content in wood is essential for the preservation of historical and artistic artifacts. This study presents the calibration of a planar Microwave Planar Capacitive Coupled Ring Resonator (MPCCRR) designed to indirectly and non-destructively assess the water [...] Read more.

The accurate and non-invasive measurement of moisture content in wood is essential for the preservation of historical and artistic artifacts. This study presents the calibration of a planar Microwave Planar Capacitive Coupled Ring Resonator (MPCCRR) designed to indirectly and non-destructively assess the water content in wood samples. The method relies on analyzing shifts in the resonant frequencies and variations in the transmission parameter |S21| resulting from changes in the material’s dielectric permittivity. After preliminary characterization via parametric simulations (εr = 1–10) and validation with low-permittivity reference materials, the sensor was tested on three wood species (poplar, fir, beech), including measurements at two sensor positions and with different grain orientations. The results demonstrate a monotonic, repeatable response to increasing moisture content with frequency shifts up to ≈220 MHz and normalized sensitivities ranging from 3 to 9 MHz/% water content, depending on species and measurement position. Position 2 showed the greatest sensitivity due to stronger field–sample interaction, while Position 1 provided a quasi-isotropic response with excellent repeatability. Linear regression analyses revealed good correlations between the frequency shifts and the gravimetric water content (R² ≥ 0.85). The MPCCRR sensor therefore proves to be a promising tool for the non-invasive monitoring of wood moisture, which is particularly suitable for the low-moisture range encountered in cultural heritage conservation, with an estimated moisture uncertainty of 0.12–0.35% under controlled laboratory conditions. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Sensing Technologies and Precision Measurement)

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