Development and characterization of MPGD-based transition radiation detectors

Abstract

Transition Radiation Detectors (TRDs) are useful for electron identification and hadron suppression in high energy nuclear and particle physics experiments. Conventional wire-chamber TRDs face operational limitations due to space charge effects, motivating the replacement of the amplification stage with MicroPattern Gaseous Detectors (MPGDs). This work explores different MPGD technologies - Gas Electron Multiplier (GEM), Micro-Mesh Gaseous Structure (Micromegas), and Resistive Micro-Well ($μ$RWELL) - as alternative TRD amplification stages. We report on the design, construction, and in-beam characterization of multiple MPGD-based TRD prototypes exposed to 3-20 GeV mixed electron-hadron beams at the Fermilab Test Beam Facility and at the CERN SPS H8 beamline. Each detector consisted of a multi-layered radiator, an approximately 2 cm deep drift region, an MPGD amplification stage optimized for X-ray transition radiation detection in a Xe:CO$_{2}$ (90:10) gas mixture, and a two-dimensional readout. The GEM-based TRD prototype achieved a pion suppression factor of about 8 at 90% electron efficiency, while the Micromegas-based prototype - with an added GEM preamplification layer - demonstrated improved operational stability and clear TR photon discrimination. The $μ$RWELL prototype achieved stable operation but limited signal gain. Geant4-based studies confirmed the observed trends and highlighted the sensitivity of the TR yield to cathode material and radiator configuration. These studies represent the first in-beam measurements of Micromegas- and $μ$RWELL-based TRDs, along with discussion of the performance capabilities of a triple-GEM-TRD. The results demonstrate the feasibility of MPGDs as scalable, high-rate amplification structures for next-generation TRD applications.