The entire field of deep underground and rare event physics is becoming a dominant area of global research, with dark matter in a very intriguing phase, the neutrino mass within the range of double beta decay experiments, and precision solar neutrino measurements becoming possible. More than ever, the next generation of rare event detectors needs advanced materials and techniques in low radioactivity.
Topics include, but are not limited to:
- Survey of existing and planned low background facilities and resources
- Low background detectors, shielding techniques and radiopurity requirements
- Scintillators (optical properties, loading, and purification)
- Radon emanation and diffusion studies
- Radon assay techniques
- Radon-free air, very low background noble gases (free of Rn, Ar, and Kr)
- Wash-off, leaching, surface contamination, screening, and cleanliness studies
- Water and scintillator purification studies
- Low-level gamma-ray spectrometry
- Neutron activation analysis techniques
- ICPMS, atomic absorption, and X-ray fluorescence spectroscopy
- Studies of cosmogenic activation of materials
- Software, simulations, electronics, vetoes, and in situ assay techniques
- Simulation of background radiation and cosmic ray backgrounds and neutron fluxes
- Human-related radioactivity concerns (smokers, medical isotopes, and industrial accidents)
- Adaptation of industrial processes and instrumentation
The goal of this workshop series is to bring together experts in this field for presentations and discussion broadly covering the issues of low radioactivity techniques. The intention is to foster and continue the collaboration and resource sharing required for the new generation of detectors to be developed at underground facilities.
