Scholar iON
Academic Synthesis
The scholarly papers presented explore advanced technological and methodological developments in distinct but thematically linked fields of scientific inquiry. The first paper discusses the design and performance of a prototype analog front-end for Time Projection Chambers (TPCs), focusing on enhancing capabilities for detecting dark matter and studying neutrino phenomena. This work highlights the need for robust electronic components that can operate under varying environmental conditions, showcasing the innovation in CMOS technology to meet stringent noise and dynamic range requirements. The second paper offers a comprehensive guide to stochastic simulations of reaction-diffusion processes, emphasizing the practical application of stochastic algorithms to model chemical reactions and diffusion. Both papers underscore the importance of precision and adaptability in scientific instrumentation and computational modelling, reflecting a broader consensus on the need for advanced tools to push the boundaries of experimental and theoretical research in physics and chemistry.
We report on the recent development of a versatile analog front-end compatible with a negative-ion $μ$-TPC for a directional dark matter search as well as a dual-phase, next-generation $\mathcal{O}$(10~kt) liquid argon TPC to study neutrino oscillations, nucleon decay, and astrophysical neutrinos. Although the operating conditions for negative-ion and liquid argon TPCs are quite different (room temperature \textit{vs.} $\sim$88~K operation, respectively), the readout electronics requirements are similar. Both require a wide-dynamic range up to 1600 fC, and less than 2000--5000 e$^-$ noise for a typical signal of 80 fC with a detector capacitance of $C_{\rm det} \approx 300$~pF. In order to fulfill such challenging requirements, a prototype ASIC was newly designed using 180-nm CMOS technology. Here, we report on the performance of this ASIC, including measurements of shaping time, dynamic range, and equivalent noise charge (ENC). We also demonstrate the first operation of this ASIC on a low-pressure negative-ion $μ$-TPC.
A practical introduction to stochastic modelling of reaction-diffusion processes is presented. No prior knowledge of stochastic simulations is assumed. The methods are explained using illustrative examples. The article starts with the classical Gillespie algorithm for the stochastic modelling of chemical reactions. Then stochastic algorithms for modelling molecular diffusion are given. Finally, basic stochastic reaction-diffusion methods are presented. The connections between stochastic simulations and deterministic models are explained and basic mathematical tools (e.g. chemical master equation) are presented. The article concludes with an overview of more advanced methods and problems.