Design optimisation of a single-wire drift chamber for modular muon imaging applications

We present a simulation study of a single-wire, modular and robust ionisation gas drift chamber designed for muon imaging applications. It offers an active area of 250 mm × 250 mm with an interaction layer height of 10 mm. As a result, multiple drift chambers can be stacked very close to each other in order to assemble smart hodoscopes measuring muon tracks. Simultaneously, its high detection efficiency optimizes measurement times, given the low flux of cosmic muons, and allows for simple signal electronics. The design optimization is performed using COMSOL and Garfield + + simulation tools, which provide static electrical field studies and electron drift analysis, respectively. The chamber design has also been optimized with respect to economic aspects, i.e. all required components are commercially available. Finally, an asymmetric, i.e. single-ended, drift chamber design is found that provides moderate dead zones at its edges and is suitable for mass production. • The design of a single-wire drift chamber is optimized. • Drift field investigations are performed using COMSOL and GARFIELD + + . • The cathode supporting-wire shape mostly influences the functionality. • The final design provides best signal yield and drifting stability. • More compact hodoscope detectors can now be assembled.