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RESEARCH PRODUCT

First Compton imaging tests with i-TED

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The objective of this work is to demonstrate the Compton imaging capabilities of a novel gamma-ray Total-Energy Detector called i-TED. The latter is intended for neutron-capture cross-sections measurements of astrophysical interest, thereby enhancing detection sensitivity by means of the simultaneous combination of Time-of-Flight with Compton-imaging techniques. The developed i-TED demonstrator comprises five position-sensitive radiation detection modules of high energy resolution, which feature an overall position-sensitive field-of-view of 125 cm2, and thus a high efficiency. Each detector module is based on 50x50 mm2 large LaCl 3 (Ce) monolithic crystals optically coupled to 8x8 pixels silicon photomultipliers. In previous works we have investigated the attainable energy resolution (~3.92(3)% at 662 keV) and spatial resolution (1-3 mm FWHM) for the detectors used in i-TED. In this work we present first Compton imaging tests carried out with i-TED and report on the interplay between scatter-absorber distance, image resolution and efficiency. This is an important aspect for the future implementation of i-TED in (n,γ) cross-section measurements, where a balance between efficiency and angular resolution has to be found, in order to optimize measuring time and background rejection. Finally, a discussion focused on the technique and scope of the project will be given.