Showing 1–50 of 72 results for author: Barresi, A

Final assessment of radioactive impurities in the JUNO detector

Authors: Thomas Adam, Fengpeng An, Costas Andreopoulos, Giuseppe Andronico, Nikolay Anfimov, Vito Antonelli, Tatiana Antoshkina, João Pedro Athayde Marcondes de André, Didier Auguste, Nikita Balashov, Andrea Barresi, Davide Basilico, Eric Baussan, Marco Beretta, Antonio Bergnoli, Nikita Bessonov, Daniel Bick, Lukas Bieger, Svetlana Biktemerova, Thilo Birkenfeld, Simon Blyth, Manuel Böhles, Anastasia Bolshakova, Mathieu Bongrand, Matteo Borghesi , et al. (549 additional authors not shown)

Abstract: The Jiangmen Underground Neutrino Observatory (JUNO) collaboration has completed the construction of the 20,000-ton liquid scintillator detector and the associated muon veto detector system. To meet the physics objectives, the materials used in the detector must exhibit low radioactive contamination. The single-event rate in the fiducial volume (R $<$ 17.2 m) of the scintillator is required to be… ▽ More The Jiangmen Underground Neutrino Observatory (JUNO) collaboration has completed the construction of the 20,000-ton liquid scintillator detector and the associated muon veto detector system. To meet the physics objectives, the materials used in the detector must exhibit low radioactive contamination. The single-event rate in the fiducial volume (R $<$ 17.2 m) of the scintillator is required to be approximately 7 Hz for energies above 0.7 MeV, resulting in an accidental coincidence background of about 1 event per day for reactor neutrino physics analyses. Since the beginning of the construction phase, we have screened the natural radioactivity content of thousands of materials, to select those that meet the design background budget. The radioactive impurity concentrations of the materials ultimately used in the JUNO detector are summarized in this paper. The construction of the entire detector and the subsequent filling of the liquid scintillator were completed in August 2025. From the initial data, the total count rate of natural radioactivity within the detector's fiducial volume has met the requirements and is sufficient to support the reactor antineutrino analysis. △ Less

Submitted 19 July, 2026; originally announced July 2026.

A Low-energy Threshold and Multi-messenger Trigger System for the JUNO Experiment

Authors: Thomas Adam, Fengpeng An, Costas Andreopoulos, Giuseppe Andronico, Nikolay Anfimov, Vito Antonelli, Tatiana Antoshkina, João Pedro Athayde Marcondes de André, Didier Auguste, Nikita Balashov, Andrea Barresi, Davide Basilico, Eric Baussan, Marco Beretta, Antonio Bergnoli, Nikita Bessonov, Daniel Bick, Lukas Bieger, Svetlana Biktemerova, Thilo Birkenfeld, Simon Blyth, Manuel Boehles, Anastasia Bolshakova, Mathieu Bongrand, Matteo Borghesi , et al. (543 additional authors not shown)

Abstract: The Jiangmen Underground Neutrino Observatory (JUNO) is a 20-kiloton liquid scintillator neutrino detector, located 650 meters (1800 m.w.e.) underground in Jiangmen, Guangdong, China. JUNO is primarily designed for reactor neutrino measurements and has been taking data since 2025. With the largest mass of its kind and an excellent energy resolution, JUNO is a leading observatory for high-precision… ▽ More The Jiangmen Underground Neutrino Observatory (JUNO) is a 20-kiloton liquid scintillator neutrino detector, located 650 meters (1800 m.w.e.) underground in Jiangmen, Guangdong, China. JUNO is primarily designed for reactor neutrino measurements and has been taking data since 2025. With the largest mass of its kind and an excellent energy resolution, JUNO is a leading observatory for high-precision measurements of MeV neutrinos. The standard global trigger system serves as the primary trigger for JUNO. We present a newly developed multi-messenger trigger system that extends the capabilities of the global trigger by providing a lower energy threshold and an independent monitoring capability. During the 2025 operation, it achieved an effective energy threshold of approximately 110 +/- 10 keV, providing a lower threshold configuration suitable for low-energy event analysis. The system shows the potential to further reduce the threshold to well below 100 keV. Based on the multi-messenger trigger system, an astrophysical monitor has been developed to receive and process external alerts from other messengers, such as gravitational-wave observations. A Transient Neutrino Burst Monitor is integrated to detect short-time-scale neutrino burst events and enables real-time monitoring of transient astrophysical phenomena. The system is sensitive to neutrino bursts from core-collapse supernovae within a distance of about 250 kpc. △ Less

Submitted 15 July, 2026; originally announced July 2026.

Comments: 29 pages, 19 figures, 3 tables

Ultra-trace analysis of 40K in organic liquid scintillators

Authors: A. Barresi, D. Chiesa, D. Merli, M. Nastasi, S. Nisi, E. Previtali, M. Sisti, M. Borghesi, A. Cammi, C. Coletta, G. Ferrante, L. Loi, G. Andronico, V. Antonelli, D. Basilico, M. Beretta, A. Bergnoli, A. Brigatti, R. Brugnera, R. Bruno, A. Budano, B. Caccianiga, A. Caslini, V. Cerrone, R. Caruso , et al. (42 additional authors not shown)

Abstract: Rare-event searches require exceptionally low background levels, motivating the development of increasingly sophisticated screening methods to push sensitivity limits. Liquid scintillators are particularly attractive detector media due to their intrinsic radiopurity and the ability to scale to large target masses. In this work, we present a screening strategy capable of measuring ultra-trace conce… ▽ More Rare-event searches require exceptionally low background levels, motivating the development of increasingly sophisticated screening methods to push sensitivity limits. Liquid scintillators are particularly attractive detector media due to their intrinsic radiopurity and the ability to scale to large target masses. In this work, we present a screening strategy capable of measuring ultra-trace concentrations of $^{40}\text{K}$ with sensitivities below $10^{-15}$g/g. The method combines neutron activation analysis with a dedicated radiochemical treatment, followed by low-background HPGe gamma spectroscopy. Using this approach, we achieved a minimum detectable concentration of $2.9\cdot10^{-16}$g/g for $^{40}\text{K}$, placing this technique among the most sensitive currently available. △ Less

Submitted 8 July, 2026; originally announced July 2026.

Embedded underwater front-end electronics for the 3-inch photomultipliers in the JUNO experiment

Authors: Cédric Cerna, Miao He, Xiaoshan Jiang, Juan Pedro Ochoa-Ricoux, Frédéric Perrot, Angel Abusleme, Thomas Adam, Fengpeng An, Costas Andreopoulos, Giuseppe Andronico, João Pedro Athayde Marcondes de André, Nikolay Anfimov, Vito Antonelli, Tatiana Antoshkina, Didier Auguste, Nikita Balashov, Andrea Barresi, Davide Basilico, Eric Baussan, Marco Beretta, Antonio Bergnoli, Nikita Bessonov, Daniel Bick, Lukas Bieger, Svetlana Biktemerova , et al. (576 additional authors not shown)

Abstract: The Jiangmen Underground Neutrino Observatory (JUNO) is a 20-kton liquid scintillator-based, low-radioactivity, multi-purpose neutrino detector located 693 meters (1800 m.w.e.) underground in the Guangdong province, China. To detect scintillation light produced in the target, the detector is equipped with 17,612 20-inch photomultipliers (PMTs), forming the Large PMT system (LPMT). In addition, 25,… ▽ More The Jiangmen Underground Neutrino Observatory (JUNO) is a 20-kton liquid scintillator-based, low-radioactivity, multi-purpose neutrino detector located 693 meters (1800 m.w.e.) underground in the Guangdong province, China. To detect scintillation light produced in the target, the detector is equipped with 17,612 20-inch photomultipliers (PMTs), forming the Large PMT system (LPMT). In addition, 25,600 3-inch photomultipliers (the Small Photomultiplier System or SPMT) are deployed in the gaps between the LPMTs. This paper presents the design and performance of the underwater front-end electronics developed for the SPMT system. It details the individual electronics boards and their key components, the inter-board interfaces, the system-level design, and the firmware architecture that supports data acquisition and control. It also outlines mechanical and thermal integration, board validation procedures, and system performance metrics. The readout chain includes digitization of 128 PMT channels per unit, synchronized time-stamping, charge measurement, event packaging, and bandwidth management. Comprehensive validation confirms the system's readiness to meet JUNO's stringent physics goals. The underwater electronics achieve noise levels as low as 0.04 photoelectrons with minimal crosstalk (below 0.4%) and a bandwidth of 57 MB/s, ensuring reliable single photo-electron detection and operation under high-rate conditions. The SPMT system has now been fully integrated and installed in JUNO. Its commissioning and physics performance will be reported in a future publication. △ Less

Submitted 1 June, 2026; v1 submitted 28 April, 2026; originally announced April 2026.

Comments: Submitted to Nucl. Instrum. Methods Phys. Res. A

Real-Time Wiener Deconvolution for feature reconstruction in JUNO

Authors: L. Lastrucci, M. Grassi, A. Triossi, J. Hu, X. Jiang, R. Brugnera, A. Garfagnini, V. Cerrone, L. V. D'Auria, A. Gavrikov, R. M. Guizzetti, A. Serafini, G. Andronico, V. Antonelli, A. Barresi, D. Basilico, M. Beretta, A. Bergnoli, M. Borghesi, A. Brigatti, R. Bruno, A. Budano, B. Caccianiga, A. Cammi, R. Caruso , et al. (52 additional authors not shown)

Abstract: In particle physics, experiments generate substantial amounts of data that can be difficult to process without preliminary scaling. To avoid losing potentially crucial data, experimental collaborations are studying novel techniques for real-time data processing to extract features for further physics analysis. A common approach, especially in neutrino physics, is to use FPGAs for data acquisition… ▽ More In particle physics, experiments generate substantial amounts of data that can be difficult to process without preliminary scaling. To avoid losing potentially crucial data, experimental collaborations are studying novel techniques for real-time data processing to extract features for further physics analysis. A common approach, especially in neutrino physics, is to use FPGAs for data acquisition and pre-processing. This paper presents an advanced Real-Time Wiener deconvolution algorithm designed to leverage the processing capabilities of the FPGA integrated into the readout boards of the Jiangmen Underground Neutrino Observatory (JUNO). The goal is to enable real-time reconstruction of the signal generated by photomultiplier tubes (PMTs) when neutrino interactions are detected. By exploiting online reconstruction of the signal generated by PMTs, we expect to improve the detection of low-energy depositions, such as those produced by transient astrophysical phenomena. These depositions are usually not saved because of the significant background that affects the low end of the energy spectrum, which would result in a large trigger rate, hence a large amount of data required for storage. This paper presents the features of the algorithm, including its ability to manage high-throughput data streams with minimal latency, adaptability, and resilience in discerning the characteristics of input data. Performance is evaluated on a JUNO electronic board. This study further demonstrates the potential of FPGA-based solutions for neutrino physics. △ Less

Submitted 26 March, 2026; originally announced March 2026.

Ultra-trace analysis of U and Th in organic liquid scintillators with high sensitivity

Authors: A. Barresi, D. Chiesa, D. Merli, M. Nastasi, S. Nisi, E. Previtali, M. Sisti, M. Borghesi, A. Cammi, C. Coletta, G. Ferrante, L. Loi, G. Andronico, V. Antonelli, D. Basilico, M. Beretta, A. Bergnoli, A. Brigatti, R. Brugnera, R. Bruno, A. Budano, B. Caccianiga, V. Cerrone, R. Caruso, C. Clementi , et al. (41 additional authors not shown)

Abstract: Rare event searches demand extremely low background levels, necessitating ever-advancing screening techniques to enhance sensitivity. Liquid scintillators are highly attractive as detector media due to their inherent radiopurity and scalability in mass. In this work, we present a screening procedure to measure ultra-trace concentrations of natural contaminants -- $^{238}$U and $^{232}$Th -- with s… ▽ More Rare event searches demand extremely low background levels, necessitating ever-advancing screening techniques to enhance sensitivity. Liquid scintillators are highly attractive as detector media due to their inherent radiopurity and scalability in mass. In this work, we present a screening procedure to measure ultra-trace concentrations of natural contaminants -- $^{238}$U and $^{232}$Th -- with sensitivities at the \qty{E-15}{g/g} level. Our method combines neutron activation analysis with radiochemical techniques, followed by \bg\ coincidence spectroscopy to minimize interference backgrounds. This approach achieves sensitivities of \qty{0.65E-15}{g/g} for $^{238}$U and \qty{2.3E-15}{g/g} for $^{232}$Th, among the best reported worldwide. Potential pathways for further sensitivity improvements are outlined in the conclusions. △ Less

Submitted 6 December, 2025; originally announced December 2025.

First measurement of reactor neutrino oscillations at JUNO

Authors: Angel Abusleme, Thomas Adam, Kai Adamowicz, David Adey, Shakeel Ahmad, Rizwan Ahmed, Timo Ahola, Sebastiano Aiello, Fengpeng An, Guangpeng An, Costas Andreopoulos, Giuseppe Andronico, João Pedro Athayde Marcondes de André, Nikolay Anfimov, Vito Antonelli, Tatiana Antoshkina, Burin Asavapibhop, Didier Auguste, Margherita Buizza Avanzini, Andrej Babic, Jingzhi Bai, Weidong Bai, Nikita Balashov, Roberto Barbera, Andrea Barresi , et al. (1114 additional authors not shown)

Abstract: Neutrino oscillations, a quantum effect manifesting at macroscopic scales, are governed by lepton flavor mixing angles and neutrino mass-squared differences that are fundamental parameters of particle physics, representing phenomena beyond the Standard Model. Precision measurements of these parameters are essential for testing the completeness of the three-flavor framework, determining the mass or… ▽ More Neutrino oscillations, a quantum effect manifesting at macroscopic scales, are governed by lepton flavor mixing angles and neutrino mass-squared differences that are fundamental parameters of particle physics, representing phenomena beyond the Standard Model. Precision measurements of these parameters are essential for testing the completeness of the three-flavor framework, determining the mass ordering of neutrinos, and probing possible new physics. The Jiangmen Underground Neutrino Observatory (JUNO) is a 20 kton liquid-scintillator detector located 52.5 km from multiple reactor cores, designed to resolve the interference pattern of reactor neutrinos with sub-percent precision. Here we report, using the first 59.1 days of data collected since detector completion in August 2025, the first simultaneous high-precision determination of two neutrino oscillation parameters, $\sin^2 θ_{12} = 0.3092\,\pm\,0.0087$ and $Δm^2_{21} = (7.50\,\pm\,0.12)\times10^{-5}\;{\rm eV}^2$ for the normal mass ordering scenario, improving the precision by a factor of 1.6 relative to the combination of all previous measurements. These results advance the basic understanding of neutrinos, validate the detector's design, and confirm JUNO's readiness for its primary goal of resolving the neutrino mass ordering with a larger dataset. The rapid achievement with a short exposure highlights JUNO's potential to push the frontiers of precision neutrino physics and paves the way for its broad scientific program. △ Less

Submitted 18 November, 2025; originally announced November 2025.

Comments: 30 pages, 11 figures

Initial performance results of the JUNO detector

Authors: Angel Abusleme, Thomas Adam, Kai Adamowicz, David Adey, Shakeel Ahmad, Rizwan Ahmed, Timo Ahola, Sebastiano Aiello, Fengpeng An, Guangpeng An, Costas Andreopoulos, Giuseppe Andronico, João Pedro Athayde Marcondes de André, Nikolay Anfimov, Vito Antonelli, Tatiana Antoshkina, Burin Asavapibhop, Didier Auguste, Margherita Buizza Avanzini, Andrej Babic, Jingzhi Bai, Weidong Bai, Nikita Balashov, Roberto Barbera, Andrea Barresi , et al. (1114 additional authors not shown)

Abstract: The Jiangmen Underground Neutrino Observatory (JUNO) started physics data taking on 26 August 2025. JUNO consists of a 20-kton liquid scintillator central detector, surrounded by a 35 kton water pool serving as a Cherenkov veto, and almost 1000 m$^2$ of plastic scintillator veto on top. The detector is located in a shallow underground laboratory with an overburden of 1800 m.w.e. This paper present… ▽ More The Jiangmen Underground Neutrino Observatory (JUNO) started physics data taking on 26 August 2025. JUNO consists of a 20-kton liquid scintillator central detector, surrounded by a 35 kton water pool serving as a Cherenkov veto, and almost 1000 m$^2$ of plastic scintillator veto on top. The detector is located in a shallow underground laboratory with an overburden of 1800 m.w.e. This paper presents the performance results of the detector, extensively studied during the commissioning of the water phase, the subsequent liquid scintillator filling phase, and the first physics runs. The liquid scintillator achieved an attenuation length of 20.6 m at 430 nm, while the high coverage PMT system and scintillator together yielded about 1785 photoelectrons per MeV of energy deposit at the detector centre, measured using the 2.223 MeV $γ$ from neutron captures on hydrogen with an Am-C calibration source. The reconstructed energy resolution is 3.4% for two 0.511 MeV $γ$ at the detector centre and 2.9% for the 0.93 MeV quenched Po-214 alpha decays from natural radioactive sources. The energy nonlinearity is calibrated to better than 1%. Intrinsic contaminations of U-238 and Th-232 in the liquid scintillator are below 10$^{-16}$ g/g, assuming secular equilibrium. The water Cherenkov detector achieves a muon detection efficiency better than 99.9% for muons traversing the liquid scintillator volume. During the initial science runs, the data acquisition duty cycle exceeded 97.8%, demonstrating the excellent stability and readiness of JUNO for high-precision neutrino physics. △ Less

Submitted 18 November, 2025; originally announced November 2025.

Comments: 38 pages, 23 figures

Prospects for geoneutrino detection with JUNO

Authors: Thomas Adam, Shakeel Ahmad, Rizwan Ahmed, Fengpeng An, João Pedro Athayde Marcondes de André, Costas Andreopoulos, Giuseppe Andronico, Nikolay Anfimov, Vito Antonelli, Tatiana Antoshkina, Didier Auguste, Marcel Büchner, Weidong Bai, Nikita Balashov, Andrea Barresi, Davide Basilico, Eric Baussan, Marco Beretta, Antonio Bergnoli, Nikita Bessonov, Daniel Bick, Lukas Bieger, Svetlana Biktemerova, Thilo Birkenfeld, Simon Blyth , et al. (605 additional authors not shown)

Abstract: Geoneutrinos, which are antineutrinos emitted during the decay of long-lived radioactive elements inside Earth, serve as a unique tool for studying the composition and heat budget of our planet. The Jiangmen Underground Neutrino Observatory (JUNO) experiment in China, which has recently completed construction, is expected to collect a sample comparable in size to the entire existing world geoneutr… ▽ More Geoneutrinos, which are antineutrinos emitted during the decay of long-lived radioactive elements inside Earth, serve as a unique tool for studying the composition and heat budget of our planet. The Jiangmen Underground Neutrino Observatory (JUNO) experiment in China, which has recently completed construction, is expected to collect a sample comparable in size to the entire existing world geoneutrino dataset in less than a year. This paper presents an updated estimation of sensitivity to geoneutrinos of JUNO using the best knowledge available to date about the experimental site, the surrounding nuclear reactors, the detector response uncertainties, and the constraints expected from the TAO satellite detector. To facilitate comparison with present and future geological models, our results cover a wide range of predicted signal strengths. Despite the significant background from reactor antineutrinos, the experiment will measure the total geoneutrino flux with a precision comparable to that of existing experiments within its first few years, ultimately achieving a world-leading precision of about 8% over ten years. The large statistics of JUNO will also allow separation of the Uranium-238 and Thorium-232 contributions with unprecedented precision, providing crucial constraints on models of formation and composition of Earth. Observation of the mantle signal above the lithospheric flux will be possible but challenging. For models with the highest predicted mantle concentrations of heat-producing elements, a 3-sigma detection over six years requires knowledge of the lithospheric flux to within 15%. Together with complementary measurements from other locations, the geoneutrino results of JUNO will offer cutting-edge, high-precision insights into the interior of Earth, of fundamental importance to both the geoscience and neutrino physics communities. △ Less

Submitted 10 November, 2025; originally announced November 2025.

Comments: 32 pages, with 13 figures and 5 tables

Impurity-controlled vortex mobility and pair-breaking in fermionic superfluid rings

Authors: Buğra Tüzemen, Andrea Barresi, Gabriel Wlazłowski, Piotr Magierski, Klejdja Xhani

Abstract: Using time-dependent density functional theory, we study how density and size of impurities govern dissipation of persistent currents of fermionic superfluid rings in the BCS regime. The critical winding number for vortex emission increases with impurity density, but this enhancement is impurity size-dependent and capped by the pair-breaking threshold. Below this vortex-emission threshold, the win… ▽ More Using time-dependent density functional theory, we study how density and size of impurities govern dissipation of persistent currents of fermionic superfluid rings in the BCS regime. The critical winding number for vortex emission increases with impurity density, but this enhancement is impurity size-dependent and capped by the pair-breaking threshold. Below this vortex-emission threshold, the winding number remains constant while flow energy dissipates through impurity-enhanced pair-breaking. Above the threshold, vortex-impurity interactions produce distinct mobility regimes-deflected trajectories, individual pinning, collective pinning, and inter-site hopping, controlled by the impurity size and density, which determine the dominant dissipation channel. These findings provide design principles for ultracold-atom experiments and insights into vortex-pinning dynamics in neutron-star crusts and superconductors. △ Less

Submitted 23 June, 2026; v1 submitted 28 October, 2025; originally announced October 2025.

Journal ref: Physical Review RESEARCH 8, 023204 (2026)

Design, waterproofing, and mass production of the 3-inch PMT frontend system of JUNO

Authors: Jilei Xu, Miao He, Cédric Cerna, Yongbo Huang, Thomas Adam, Shakeel Ahmad, Rizwan Ahmed, Fengpeng An, Costas Andreopoulos, Giuseppe Andronico, João Pedro Athayde Marcondes de André, Nikolay Anfimov, Vito Antonelli, Tatiana Antoshkina, Didier Auguste, Weidong Bai, Nikita Balashov, Andrea Barresi, Davide Basilico, Eric Baussan, Marco Beretta, Antonio Bergnoli, Nikita Bessonov, Daniel Bick, Lukas Bieger , et al. (609 additional authors not shown)

Abstract: Over 25,600 3-inch photomultiplier tubes (PMTs) have been instrumented for the central detector of the Jiangmen Underground Neutrino Observatory. Each PMT is equipped with a high-voltage divider and a frontend cable with waterproof sealing. Groups of sixteen PMTs are connected to the underwater frontend readout electronics via specialized multi-channel waterproof connectors. This paper outlines th… ▽ More Over 25,600 3-inch photomultiplier tubes (PMTs) have been instrumented for the central detector of the Jiangmen Underground Neutrino Observatory. Each PMT is equipped with a high-voltage divider and a frontend cable with waterproof sealing. Groups of sixteen PMTs are connected to the underwater frontend readout electronics via specialized multi-channel waterproof connectors. This paper outlines the design and mass production processes for the high-voltage divider, the cable and connector, as well as the waterproof potting of the PMT bases. The results of the acceptance tests of all the integrated PMTs are also presented. △ Less

Submitted 22 January, 2026; v1 submitted 7 October, 2025; originally announced October 2025.

Simulation-based inference for Precision Neutrino Physics through Neural Monte Carlo tuning

Authors: A. Gavrikov, A. Serafini, D. Dolzhikov, A. Garfagnini, M. Gonchar, M. Grassi, R. Brugnera, V. Cerrone, L. V. D'Auria, R. M. Guizzetti, L. Lastrucci, G. Andronico, V. Antonelli, A. Barresi, D. Basilico, M. Beretta, A. Bergnoli, M. Borghesi, A. Brigatti, R. Bruno, A. Budano, B. Caccianiga, A. Cammi, R. Caruso, D. Chiesa , et al. (41 additional authors not shown)

Abstract: Precise modeling of detector energy response is crucial for next-generation neutrino experiments which present computational challenges due to lack of analytical likelihoods. We propose a solution using neural likelihood estimation within the simulation-based inference framework. We develop two complementary neural density estimators that model likelihoods of calibration data: conditional normaliz… ▽ More Precise modeling of detector energy response is crucial for next-generation neutrino experiments which present computational challenges due to lack of analytical likelihoods. We propose a solution using neural likelihood estimation within the simulation-based inference framework. We develop two complementary neural density estimators that model likelihoods of calibration data: conditional normalizing flows and a transformer-based regressor. We adopt JUNO - a large neutrino experiment - as a case study. The energy response of JUNO depends on several parameters, all of which should be tuned, given their non-linear behavior and strong correlations in the calibration data. To this end, we integrate the modeled likelihoods with Bayesian nested sampling for parameter inference, achieving uncertainties limited only by statistics with near-zero systematic biases. The normalizing flows model enables unbinned likelihood analysis, while the transformer provides an efficient binned alternative. By providing both options, our framework offers flexibility to choose the most appropriate method for specific needs. Finally, our approach establishes a template for similar applications across experimental neutrino and broader particle physics. △ Less

Submitted 31 July, 2025; originally announced July 2025.

Quantum vortex dipole as a probe of the normal component distribution

Authors: Andrea Barresi, Piotr Magierski, Gabriel Wlazłowski

Abstract: We investigate the dynamics of quantum vortex dipoles in a strongly interacting, spin-imbalanced Fermi superfluid at zero temperature. Using fully microscopic time-dependent density functional theory, we demonstrate that the dipole trajectory is strongly influenced by the spatial distribution of spin polarization. The resulting forces on the vortices include both longitudinal and transverse compon… ▽ More We investigate the dynamics of quantum vortex dipoles in a strongly interacting, spin-imbalanced Fermi superfluid at zero temperature. Using fully microscopic time-dependent density functional theory, we demonstrate that the dipole trajectory is strongly influenced by the spatial distribution of spin polarization. The resulting forces on the vortices include both longitudinal and transverse components, leading to deflection and shrinking of the dipole during propagation. For moderate polarization, vortex dipoles are deflected and lose energy, while for larger imbalances, they are rapidly annihilated. Our findings provide compelling evidence that spin-imbalanced Fermi gases contain a spatially nonuniform normal component even at zero temperature. We show that vortex dipoles serve as sensitive probes of this component, offering a route to indirectly detect exotic superfluid phases such as the Fulde-Ferrell-Larkin-Ovchinnikov state and related inhomogeneous condensates. △ Less

Submitted 4 November, 2025; v1 submitted 8 July, 2025; originally announced July 2025.

Comments: 20 pages, 9 figures

Journal ref: New J. Phys. 27, 113201 (2025)

Sensitivity of the CUPID experiment to $0νββ$ decay of $^{100}$Mo

Authors: K. Alfonso, A. Armatol, C. Augier, F. T. Avignone III, O. Azzolini, A. S. Barabash, G. Bari, A. Barresi, D. Baudin, F. Bellini, G. Benato, L. Benussi, V. Berest, M. Beretta, L. Bergé, M. Bettelli, M. Biassoni, J. Billard, F. Boffelli, V. Boldrini, E. D. Brandani, C. Brofferio, C. Bucci, M. Buchynska, J. Camilleri , et al. (167 additional authors not shown)

Abstract: CUPID is a next-generation bolometric experiment to search for neutrinoless double-beta decay ($0νββ$) of $^{100}$Mo using Li$_2$MoO$_4$ scintillating crystals. It will operate 1596 crystals at $\sim$10 mK in the CUORE cryostat at the Laboratori Nazionali del Gran Sasso in Italy. Each crystal will be facing two Ge-based bolometric light detectors for $α$ rejection. We compute the discovery and the… ▽ More CUPID is a next-generation bolometric experiment to search for neutrinoless double-beta decay ($0νββ$) of $^{100}$Mo using Li$_2$MoO$_4$ scintillating crystals. It will operate 1596 crystals at $\sim$10 mK in the CUORE cryostat at the Laboratori Nazionali del Gran Sasso in Italy. Each crystal will be facing two Ge-based bolometric light detectors for $α$ rejection. We compute the discovery and the exclusion sensitivity of CUPID to $0νββ$ in a Frequentist and a Bayesian framework. This computation is done numerically based on pseudo-experiments. For the CUPID baseline scenario, with a background and an energy resolution of $1.0 \times 10^{-4}$ counts/keV/kg/yr and 5 keV FWHM at the Q-value, respectively, this results in a Bayesian exclusion sensitivity (90% c.i.) of $\hat{T}_{1/2} > 1.6 \times 10^{27} \ \mathrm{yr}$, corresponding to the effective Majorana neutrino mass of $\hat{m}_{ββ} < \ 9.6$ -- $28 \ \mathrm{meV}$. The Frequentist discovery sensitivity (3$σ$) is $\hat{T}_{1/2}= 1.0 \times 10^{27} \ \mathrm{yr}$, corresponding to $\hat{m}_{ββ}= \ 12$ -- $36 \ \mathrm{meV}$. △ Less

Submitted 2 February, 2026; v1 submitted 19 April, 2025; originally announced April 2025.

Comments: Accepted for publication in European Physical Journal C

Innovating Bolometers' Mounting: A Gravity-Based Approach

Authors: The CUPID Collaboration, K. Alfonso, A. Armatol, C. Augier, F. T. Avignone III, O. Azzolini, A. S. Barabash, G. Bari, A. Barresi, D. Baudin, F. Bellini, G. Benato, L. Benussi, V. Berest, M. Beretta, M. Bettelli, M. Biassoni, J. Billard, F. Boffelli, V. Boldrini, E. D. Brandani, C. Brofferio, C. Bucci, M. Buchynska, J. Camilleri , et al. (168 additional authors not shown)

Abstract: Cryogenic calorimeters, also known as bolometers, are among the leading technologies for searching for rare events. The CUPID experiment is exploiting this technology to deploy a tonne-scale detector to search for neutrinoless double-beta decay of $^{100}$Mo. The CUPID collaboration proposed an innovative approach to assembling bolometers in a stacked configuration, held in position solely by grav… ▽ More Cryogenic calorimeters, also known as bolometers, are among the leading technologies for searching for rare events. The CUPID experiment is exploiting this technology to deploy a tonne-scale detector to search for neutrinoless double-beta decay of $^{100}$Mo. The CUPID collaboration proposed an innovative approach to assembling bolometers in a stacked configuration, held in position solely by gravity. This gravity-based assembly method is unprecedented in the field of bolometers and offers several advantages, including relaxed mechanical tolerances and simplified construction. To assess and optimize its performance, we constructed a medium-scale prototype hosting 28 Li$_2$MoO$_4$ crystals and 30 Ge light detectors, both operated as cryogenic calorimeters at the Laboratori Nazionali del Gran Sasso (Italy). Despite an unexpected excess of noise in the light detectors, the results of this test proved (i) a thermal stability better than $\pm$0.5 mK at 10 mK, (ii) a good energy resolution of Li$_2$MoO$_4$ bolometers, (6.6 $\pm$ 2.2) keV FWHM at 2615 keV, and (iii) a Li$_2$MoO$_4$ light yield measured by the closest light detector of 0.36 keV/MeV, sufficient to guarantee the particle identification requested by CUPID. △ Less

Submitted 6 March, 2025; originally announced March 2025.

CUPID, the CUORE Upgrade with Particle IDentification

Authors: The CUPID Collaboration, K. Alfonso, A. Armatol, C. Augier, F. T. Avignone III, O. Azzolini, A. S. Barabash, G. Bari, A. Barresi, D. Baudin, F. Bellini, G. Benato, L. Benussi, V. Berest, M. Beretta, L. Bergé, M. Bettelli, M. Biassoni, J. Billard, F. Boffelli, V. Boldrini, E. D. Brandani, C. Brofferio, C. Bucci, M. Buchynska , et al. (168 additional authors not shown)

Abstract: CUPID, the CUORE Upgrade with Particle IDentification, is a next-generation experiment to search for neutrinoless double beta decay ($0νββ$) and other rare events using enriched Li$_2$$^{100}$MoO$_4$ scintillating bolometers. It will be hosted by the CUORE cryostat located at the Laboratori Nazionali del Gran Sasso in Italy. The main physics goal of CUPID is to search for $0νββ$\ of $^{100}$Mo wit… ▽ More CUPID, the CUORE Upgrade with Particle IDentification, is a next-generation experiment to search for neutrinoless double beta decay ($0νββ$) and other rare events using enriched Li$_2$$^{100}$MoO$_4$ scintillating bolometers. It will be hosted by the CUORE cryostat located at the Laboratori Nazionali del Gran Sasso in Italy. The main physics goal of CUPID is to search for $0νββ$\ of $^{100}$Mo with a discovery sensitivity covering the full neutrino mass regime in the inverted ordering scenario, as well as the portion of the normal ordering regime with lightest neutrino mass larger than 10 meV. With a conservative background index of 10$^{-4}$ cnts/(keV$\cdot$kg$\cdot$yr), 240 kg isotope mass, 5 keV FWHM energy resolution at 3 MeV and 10 live-years of data taking, CUPID will have a 90\% C.L. half-life exclusion sensitivity of 1.8 $\cdot$ 10$^{27}$ yr, corresponding to an effective Majorana neutrino mass ($m_{ββ}$) sensitivity of 9--15 meV, and a $3σ$ discovery sensitivity of 1 $\cdot$ 10$^{27}$ yr, corresponding to an $m_{ββ}$ range of 12--21 meV. △ Less

Submitted 11 July, 2025; v1 submitted 1 March, 2025; originally announced March 2025.

Comments: Accepted for publication by EPJC; 25 pages, 6 figures, and 2 tables

Journal ref: Eur. Phys. J. C 85, 737 (2025)

Simulation of the Background from $^{13}$C$(α, n)^{16}$O Reaction in the JUNO Scintillator

Authors: JUNO Collaboration, Thomas Adam, Kai Adamowicz, Shakeel Ahmad, Rizwan Ahmed, Sebastiano Aiello, Fengpeng An, Costas Andreopoulos, Giuseppe Andronico, Nikolay Anfimov, Vito Antonelli, Tatiana Antoshkina, João Pedro Athayde Marcondes de André, Didier Auguste, Weidong Bai, Nikita Balashov, Andrea Barresi, Davide Basilico, Eric Baussan, Marco Beretta, Antonio Bergnoli, Nikita Bessonov, Daniel Bick, Lukas Bieger, Svetlana Biktemerova , et al. (608 additional authors not shown)

Abstract: Large-scale organic liquid scintillator detectors are highly efficient in the detection of MeV-scale electron antineutrinos. These signal events can be detected through inverse beta decay on protons, which produce a positron accompanied by a neutron. A noteworthy background for antineutrinos coming from nuclear power reactors and from the depths of the Earth (geoneutrinos) is generated by ($α, n$)… ▽ More Large-scale organic liquid scintillator detectors are highly efficient in the detection of MeV-scale electron antineutrinos. These signal events can be detected through inverse beta decay on protons, which produce a positron accompanied by a neutron. A noteworthy background for antineutrinos coming from nuclear power reactors and from the depths of the Earth (geoneutrinos) is generated by ($α, n$) reactions. In organic liquid scintillator detectors, $α$ particles emitted from intrinsic contaminants such as $^{238}$U, $^{232}$Th, and $^{210}$Pb/$^{210}$Po, can be captured on $^{13}$C nuclei, followed by the emission of a MeV-scale neutron. Three distinct interaction mechanisms can produce prompt energy depositions preceding the delayed neutron capture, leading to a pair of events correlated in space and time within the detector. Thus, ($α, n$) reactions represent an indistinguishable background in liquid scintillator-based antineutrino detectors, where their expected rate and energy spectrum are typically evaluated via Monte Carlo simulations. This work presents results from the open-source SaG4n software, used to calculate the expected energy depositions from the neutron and any associated de-excitation products. Also simulated is a detailed detector response to these interactions, using a dedicated Geant4-based simulation software from the JUNO experiment. An expected measurable $^{13}$C$(α, n)^{16}$O event rate and reconstructed prompt energy spectrum with associated uncertainties, are presented in the context of JUNO, however, the methods and results are applicable and relevant to other organic liquid scintillator neutrino detectors. △ Less

Submitted 2 May, 2025; v1 submitted 2 March, 2025; originally announced March 2025.

Comments: 25 pages, 14 figures, 4 tables

Implementation of a high-efficiency muon veto system for the GeSparK alpha-beta/gamma coincidence detector

Authors: A. Barresi, D. Chiesa, M. Nastasi, E. Previtali, M. Sisti

Abstract: One of the main background sources of low background high purity germanium (HPGe) detectors is the cosmic muon showers produced in the interaction with the lead and copper shield surrounding the detector that can induce signals not distinguishable from radioactivity events. Plastic scintillators are widely used to implement active veto systems to reduce this contribution and increase the measureme… ▽ More One of the main background sources of low background high purity germanium (HPGe) detectors is the cosmic muon showers produced in the interaction with the lead and copper shield surrounding the detector that can induce signals not distinguishable from radioactivity events. Plastic scintillators are widely used to implement active veto systems to reduce this contribution and increase the measurement sensitivity. In this work, we present the implementation of a high-efficiency muon veto system for the alpha-beta/gamma coincidence detector, called GeSparK. The veto system consists of six plastic scintillator detectors accurately positioned around the HPGe and liquid scintillator detectors. The final design includes two detectors above and four inside the passive shielding between the copper and lead layers. In this way, we could limit both their size and the event rate produced by external radioactivity. A dedicated background measurement showed that the achieved background reduction is a bit less than 93%. △ Less

Submitted 17 February, 2025; originally announced February 2025.

Fluorescence emission of the JUNO liquid scintillator

Authors: M. Beretta, F. Houria, F. Ferraro, D. Basilico, A. Brigatti, B. Caccianiga, A. Caslini, C. Landini, P. Lombardi, L. Pelicci, E. Percalli, G. Ranucci, A. C. Re, C. Clementi, F. Ortica, A. Romani, V. Antonelli, M. G. Giammarchi, L. Miramonti, P. Saggese, M. D. C. Torri, S. Aiello, G. Andronico, A. Barresi, A. Bergnoli , et al. (43 additional authors not shown)

Abstract: JUNO is a huge neutrino detector that will use 20 kton of organic liquid scintillator as its detection medium. The scintillator is a mixture of linear alkyl benzene (LAB), 2.5 g/L of 2,5-diphenyloxazole (PPO) and 3 mg/L of 1,4-Bis(2-methylstyryl)benzene (Bis-MSB). The main goal of JUNO is to determine the Neutrino Mass Ordering [1, 2, 3]. In order to achieve this purpose, good energy and position… ▽ More JUNO is a huge neutrino detector that will use 20 kton of organic liquid scintillator as its detection medium. The scintillator is a mixture of linear alkyl benzene (LAB), 2.5 g/L of 2,5-diphenyloxazole (PPO) and 3 mg/L of 1,4-Bis(2-methylstyryl)benzene (Bis-MSB). The main goal of JUNO is to determine the Neutrino Mass Ordering [1, 2, 3]. In order to achieve this purpose, good energy and position reconstruction is required, hence a complete understanding of the optical characteristics of the liquid scintillator is mandatory. In this paper we present the measurements on the JUNO scintillator emission spectrum, absorption length and fluorescence time distribution performed respectively with a spectrofluorimeter, a spectrophotometer and a custom made setup △ Less

Submitted 9 March, 2025; v1 submitted 17 January, 2025; originally announced January 2025.

Journal ref: Journal of Instrumentation, Volume 20, May 2025

Machine learning-assisted techniques for Compton-background discrimination in Broad Energy Germanium (BEGe) detector

Authors: Giovanni Baccolo, Andrea Barresi, Davide Chiesa, Andrea Giachero, Danilo Labranca, Roberto Moretti, Massimiliano Nastasi, Alessandro Paonessa, Marco Picione, Ezio Previtali, Monica Sisti

Abstract: High Purity Germanium (HPGe) detectors are powerful detectors for gamma-ray spectroscopy. The sensitivity to low-intensity gamma-ray peaks is often hindered by the presence of Compton continuum distributions, originated by gamma-rays emitted at higher energies. This study explores novel, pulse shape-based, machine learning-assisted techniques to enhance Compton background discrimination in Broad E… ▽ More High Purity Germanium (HPGe) detectors are powerful detectors for gamma-ray spectroscopy. The sensitivity to low-intensity gamma-ray peaks is often hindered by the presence of Compton continuum distributions, originated by gamma-rays emitted at higher energies. This study explores novel, pulse shape-based, machine learning-assisted techniques to enhance Compton background discrimination in Broad Energy Germanium (BEGe TM) detectors. We introduce two machine learning models: an autoencoder-MLP (Multilayer Perceptron) and a Gaussian Mixture Model (GMM). These models differentiate single-site events (SSEs) from multi-site events (MSEs) and train on signal waveforms produced in the detector. The GMM method differs from previous machine learning efforts in that it is fully unsupervised, hence not requiring specific data labelling during the training phase. Being both label-free and simulation-agnostic makes the unsupervised approach particularly advantageous for tasks where realistic, high-fidelity labeling is challenging or where biases introduced by simulated data must be avoided. In our analysis, the full-energy Peak-to-Compton ratio of the 137-Cs, a radionuclide contained in a cryoconite sample, exhibits an improvement from 0.238 in the original spectrum to 0.547 after the ACM data filtering and 0.414 after the GMM data filtering, demonstrating the effectiveness of these methods. The results also showcase an enhancement in the signal-to-background ratio across many regions of interest, enabling the detection of lower concentrations of radionuclides. △ Less

Submitted 11 December, 2024; originally announced December 2024.

Comments: Sumbitted to EPJC

Radiopurity screening of materials for rare event searches by neutron activation at the TRIGA reactor of Pavia

Authors: G. Baccolo, A. Barresi, D. Chiesa, M. Nastasi, E. Previtali, M. Sisti

Abstract: In the framework of physics experiments searching for rare events, the selection of extremely radiopure materials is a challenging task, as the signal of interest is often hidden by instrumental background. Neutron activation is a powerful technique to measure trace contaminants with high sensitivity but, to be properly applied, it requires a good characterization of neutron irradiation and $γ$-sp… ▽ More In the framework of physics experiments searching for rare events, the selection of extremely radiopure materials is a challenging task, as the signal of interest is often hidden by instrumental background. Neutron activation is a powerful technique to measure trace contaminants with high sensitivity but, to be properly applied, it requires a good characterization of neutron irradiation and $γ$-spectroscopy facilities. This paper presents the state-of-the-art workflow adopted by the Radioactivity Laboratory of the University of Milano-Bicocca for radiopurity screening of materials by neutron activation performed at the TRIGA reactor in Pavia. The ultimate sensitivity of the described workflow, in the absence of interfering activation products and without the application of radiochemical and/or active background rejection techniques, is $<10^{-14}$ g/g for $^{40}$K, $<10^{-12}$ g/g for $^{238}$U and of the order of $10^{-12}$ g/g for $^{232}$Th contaminations. Further details are here provided to address systematic uncertainties related to neutron irradiation that may bias results. To this aim, a dedicated neutron activation campaign was performed and the data were analyzed exploiting a Monte Carlo simulation model of the reactor and applying an unfolding technique to obtain a comprehensive characterization of the neutron flux in typical irradiation configurations. The results of this work provide a valuable benchmark for the application of neutron activation in future radiopurity screening campaigns. △ Less

Submitted 6 October, 2025; v1 submitted 4 November, 2024; originally announced November 2024.

Comments: This version of the article has been accepted for publication after peer review, but is not the Version of Record and does not reflect post-acceptance improvements, or any corrections

Journal ref: Eur. Phys. J. Plus 140, 311 (2025)

Quantum vortices in fermionic superfluids: from ultracold atoms to neutron stars

Authors: Piotr Magierski, Andrea Barresi, Andrzej Makowski, Daniel Pęcak, Gabriel Wlazłowski

Abstract: Superfluid dilute neutron matter and ultracold gas, close to the unitary regime, exhibit several similarities. Therefore, to a certain extent, fermionic ultracold gases may serve as emulators of dilute neutron matter, which forms the inner crust of neutron stars and is not directly accessed experimentally. Quantum vortices are one of the most significant properties of neutron superfluid, essential… ▽ More Superfluid dilute neutron matter and ultracold gas, close to the unitary regime, exhibit several similarities. Therefore, to a certain extent, fermionic ultracold gases may serve as emulators of dilute neutron matter, which forms the inner crust of neutron stars and is not directly accessed experimentally. Quantum vortices are one of the most significant properties of neutron superfluid, essential for comprehending neutron stars' dynamics. The structure and dynamics of quantum vortices as a function of pairing correlations' strength are being investigated experimentally and theoretically in ultracold gases. Certain aspects of these studies are relevant to neutron stars. We provide an overview of the characteristics of quantum vortices in s-wave-type fermionic and electrically neutral superfluids. The main focus is on the dynamics of fermionic vortices and their intrinsic structure. △ Less

Submitted 16 September, 2024; v1 submitted 20 June, 2024; originally announced June 2024.

Journal ref: Eur. Phys. J. A 60, 186 (2024)

Interpretable machine learning approach for electron antineutrino selection in a large liquid scintillator detector

Authors: A. Gavrikov, V. Cerrone, A. Serafini, R. Brugnera, A. Garfagnini, M. Grassi, B. Jelmini, L. Lastrucci, S. Aiello, G. Andronico, V. Antonelli, A. Barresi, D. Basilico, M. Beretta, A. Bergnoli, M. Borghesi, A. Brigatti, R. Bruno, A. Budano, B. Caccianiga, A. Cammi, R. Caruso, D. Chiesa, C. Clementi, S. Dusini , et al. (43 additional authors not shown)

Abstract: Several neutrino detectors, KamLAND, Daya Bay, Double Chooz, RENO, and the forthcoming large-scale JUNO, rely on liquid scintillator to detect reactor antineutrino interactions. In this context, inverse beta decay represents the golden channel for antineutrino detection, providing a pair of correlated events, thus a strong experimental signature to distinguish the signal from a variety of backgrou… ▽ More Several neutrino detectors, KamLAND, Daya Bay, Double Chooz, RENO, and the forthcoming large-scale JUNO, rely on liquid scintillator to detect reactor antineutrino interactions. In this context, inverse beta decay represents the golden channel for antineutrino detection, providing a pair of correlated events, thus a strong experimental signature to distinguish the signal from a variety of backgrounds. However, given the low cross-section of antineutrino interactions, the development of a powerful event selection algorithm becomes imperative to achieve effective discrimination between signal and backgrounds. In this study, we introduce a machine learning (ML) model to achieve this goal: a fully connected neural network as a powerful signal-background discriminator for a large liquid scintillator detector. We demonstrate, using the JUNO detector as an example, that, despite the already high efficiency of a cut-based approach, the presented ML model can further improve the overall event selection efficiency. Moreover, it allows for the retention of signal events at the detector edges that would otherwise be rejected because of the overwhelming amount of background events in that region. We also present the first interpretable analysis of the ML approach for event selection in reactor neutrino experiments. This method provides insights into the decision-making process of the model and offers valuable information for improving and updating traditional event selection approaches. △ Less

Submitted 25 November, 2024; v1 submitted 9 June, 2024; originally announced June 2024.

Comments: This is a post-peer-review, pre-copyedit version of an article published in Phys. Lett. B. The final published version is available online: https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S0370269324006993

Journal ref: Physics Letters B 860, 139141 (2025)

Stability of persistent currents in superfluid fermionic rings

Authors: Klejdja Xhani, Andrea Barresi, Marek Tylutki, Gabriel Wlazłowski, Piotr Magierski

Abstract: We investigate the stability of persistent currents in superfluid fermionic gases confined to a ring geometry. Our study, conducted at zero temperature using time-dependent density functional theory, cover interaction regimes from strong (unitary Fermi gas) to weak (Bardeen-Cooper-Schrieffer regime) couplings. Stability is tested against the presence of an external defect within the ring. The diss… ▽ More We investigate the stability of persistent currents in superfluid fermionic gases confined to a ring geometry. Our study, conducted at zero temperature using time-dependent density functional theory, cover interaction regimes from strong (unitary Fermi gas) to weak (Bardeen-Cooper-Schrieffer regime) couplings. Stability is tested against the presence of an external defect within the ring. The dissipation mechanism associated with vortex generation is present in all interaction regimes. Vortex emission is accompanied by Cooper pair breaking, which occurs even beyond the vortex core in the weakly interacting regime. The pair-breaking mechanism prevents the imprinting of a persistent current with a winding number above a threshold, which decreases as the system approach the BCS regime. Our study reveals the existence of two types of critical winding numbers above which currents cease to be persistent in Fermi superfluids: one related to the proliferation of quantum vortices and the other to the onset of the pair-breaking mechanism. △ Less

Submitted 15 July, 2025; v1 submitted 14 June, 2024; originally announced June 2024.

Comments: 9 pages, 5 figures

Journal ref: Phys. Rev. Research 7, 013225 (2025)

Distillation and Stripping purification plants for JUNO liquid scintillator

Authors: C. Landini, M. Beretta, P. Lombardi, A. Brigatti, M. Montuschi, S. Parmeggiano, G. Ranucci, V. Antonelli, D. Basilico, B. Caccianiga, M. G. Giammarchi, L. Miramonti, E. Percalli, A. C. Re, P. Saggese, M. D. C. Torri, S. Aiello, G. Andronico, A. Barresi, A. Bergnoli, M. Borghesi, R. Brugnera, R. Bruno, A. Budano, A. Cammi , et al. (42 additional authors not shown)

Abstract: The optical and radiochemical purification of the scintillating liquid, which will fill the central detector of the JUNO experiment, plays a crucial role in achieving its scientific goals. Given its gigantic mass and dimensions and an unprecedented target value of about 3% @ 1 MeV in energy resolution, JUNO has set severe requirements on the parameters of its scintillator, such as attenuation leng… ▽ More The optical and radiochemical purification of the scintillating liquid, which will fill the central detector of the JUNO experiment, plays a crucial role in achieving its scientific goals. Given its gigantic mass and dimensions and an unprecedented target value of about 3% @ 1 MeV in energy resolution, JUNO has set severe requirements on the parameters of its scintillator, such as attenuation length (Lat>20 m at 430 nm), transparency, light yield, and content of radioactive contaminants (238U,232Th<10-15 g/g). To accomplish these needs, the scintillator will be processed using several purification methods, including distillation in partial vacuum and gas stripping, which are performed in two large scale plants installed at the JUNO site. In this paper, layout, operating principles, and technical aspects which have driven the design and construction of the distil- lation and gas stripping plants are reviewed. The distillation is effective in enhancing the optical properties and removing heavy radio-impurities (238U,232Th, 40K), while the stripping process exploits pure water steam and high-purity nitrogen to extract gaseous contaminants (222Rn, 39Ar, 85Kr, O2) from the scintillator. The plant operating parameters have been tuned during the recent com- missioning phase at the JUNO site and several QA/QC measurements and tests have been performed to evaluate the performances of the plants. Some preliminary results on the efficiency of these purification processes will be shown. △ Less

Submitted 3 June, 2024; originally announced June 2024.

Comments: 11 pages, 7 figures

Refractive index in the JUNO liquid scintillator

Authors: H. S. Zhang, M. Beretta, S. Cialdi, C. X. Yang, J. H. Huang, F. Ferraro, G. F. Cao, G. Reina, Z. Y. Deng, E. Suerra, S. Altilia, V. Antonelli, D. Basilico, A. Brigatti, B. Caccianiga, M. G. Giammarchi, C. Landini, P. Lombardi, L. Miramonti, E. Percalli, G. Ranucci, A. C. Re, P. Saggese, M. D. C. Torri, S. Aiello , et al. (51 additional authors not shown)

Abstract: In the field of rare event physics, it is common to have huge masses of organic liquid scintillator as detection medium. In particular, they are widely used to study neutrino properties or astrophysical neutrinos. Thanks to its safety properties (such as low toxicity and high flash point) and easy scalability, linear alkyl benzene is the most common solvent used to produce liquid scintillators for… ▽ More In the field of rare event physics, it is common to have huge masses of organic liquid scintillator as detection medium. In particular, they are widely used to study neutrino properties or astrophysical neutrinos. Thanks to its safety properties (such as low toxicity and high flash point) and easy scalability, linear alkyl benzene is the most common solvent used to produce liquid scintillators for large mass experiments. The knowledge of the refractive index is a pivotal point to understand the detector response, as this quantity (and its wavelength dependence) affects the Cherenkov radiation and photon propagation in the medium. In this paper, we report the measurement of the refractive index of the JUNO liquid scintillator between 260-1064 nm performed with two different methods (an ellipsometer and a refractometer), with a sub percent level precision. In addition, we used an interferometer to measure the group velocity in the JUNO liquid scintillator and verify the expected value derived from the refractive index measurements. △ Less

Submitted 30 May, 2024; originally announced May 2024.

Comments: 6 pages, 9 figures

Potential to identify neutrino mass ordering with reactor antineutrinos at JUNO

Authors: JUNO Collaboration, Angel Abusleme, Thomas Adam, Shakeel Ahmad, Rizwan Ahmed, Sebastiano Aiello, Muhammad Akram, Abid Aleem, Fengpeng An, Qi An, Giuseppe Andronico, Nikolay Anfimov, Vito Antonelli, Tatiana Antoshkina, Burin Asavapibhop, João Pedro Athayde Marcondes de André, Didier Auguste, Weidong Bai, Nikita Balashov, Wander Baldini, Andrea Barresi, Davide Basilico, Eric Baussan, Marco Bellato, Marco Beretta , et al. (605 additional authors not shown)

Abstract: The Jiangmen Underground Neutrino Observatory (JUNO) is a multi-purpose neutrino experiment under construction in South China. This paper presents an updated estimate of JUNO's sensitivity to neutrino mass ordering using the reactor antineutrinos emitted from eight nuclear reactor cores in the Taishan and Yangjiang nuclear power plants. This measurement is planned by studying the fine interference… ▽ More The Jiangmen Underground Neutrino Observatory (JUNO) is a multi-purpose neutrino experiment under construction in South China. This paper presents an updated estimate of JUNO's sensitivity to neutrino mass ordering using the reactor antineutrinos emitted from eight nuclear reactor cores in the Taishan and Yangjiang nuclear power plants. This measurement is planned by studying the fine interference pattern caused by quasi-vacuum oscillations in the oscillated antineutrino spectrum at a baseline of 52.5~km and is completely independent of the CP violating phase and neutrino mixing angle $θ_{23}$. The sensitivity is obtained through a joint analysis of JUNO and Taishan Antineutrino Observatory (TAO) detectors utilizing the best available knowledge to date about the location and overburden of the JUNO experimental site, local and global nuclear reactors, JUNO and TAO detector responses, expected event rates and spectra of signals and backgrounds, and systematic uncertainties of analysis inputs. We find that a 3$σ$ median sensitivity to reject the wrong mass ordering hypothesis can be reached with an exposure to approximately 6.5 years $\times$ 26.6 GW thermal power. △ Less

Submitted 11 February, 2025; v1 submitted 28 May, 2024; originally announced May 2024.

Comments: The version published on Chinese Physics C

Prediction of Energy Resolution in the JUNO Experiment

Authors: JUNO Collaboration, Angel Abusleme, Thomas Adam, Kai Adamowicz, Shakeel Ahmad, Rizwan Ahmed, Sebastiano Aiello, Fengpeng An, Qi An, Giuseppe Andronico, Nikolay Anfimov, Vito Antonelli, Tatiana Antoshkina, João Pedro Athayde Marcondes de André, Didier Auguste, Weidong Bai, Nikita Balashov, Wander Baldini, Andrea Barresi, Davide Basilico, Eric Baussan, Marco Bellato, Marco Beretta, Antonio Bergnoli, Daniel Bick , et al. (629 additional authors not shown)

Abstract: This paper presents an energy resolution study of the JUNO experiment, incorporating the latest knowledge acquired during the detector construction phase. The determination of neutrino mass ordering in JUNO requires an exceptional energy resolution better than 3\% at 1~MeV. To achieve this ambitious goal, significant efforts have been undertaken in the design and production of the key components o… ▽ More This paper presents an energy resolution study of the JUNO experiment, incorporating the latest knowledge acquired during the detector construction phase. The determination of neutrino mass ordering in JUNO requires an exceptional energy resolution better than 3\% at 1~MeV. To achieve this ambitious goal, significant efforts have been undertaken in the design and production of the key components of the JUNO detector. Various factors affecting the detection of inverse beta decay signals have an impact on the energy resolution, extending beyond the statistical fluctuations of the detected number of photons, such as the properties of the liquid scintillator, performance of photomultiplier tubes, and the energy reconstruction algorithm. To account for these effects, a full JUNO simulation and reconstruction approach is employed. This enables the modeling of all relevant effects and the evaluation of associated inputs to accurately estimate the energy resolution. The results of study reveal an energy resolution of 2.95\% at 1~MeV. Furthermore, this study assesses the contribution of major effects to the overall energy resolution budget. This analysis serves as a reference for interpreting future measurements of energy resolution during JUNO data collection. Moreover, it provides a guideline for comprehending the energy resolution characteristics of liquid scintillator-based detectors. △ Less

Submitted 9 January, 2025; v1 submitted 28 May, 2024; originally announced May 2024.

Journal ref: Chinese Phys. C 49 013003 (2025)

JUNO Sensitivity to Invisible Decay Modes of Neutrons

Authors: JUNO Collaboration, Angel Abusleme, Thomas Adam, Kai Adamowicz, Shakeel Ahmad, Rizwan Ahmed, Sebastiano Aiello, Fengpeng An, Qi An, Giuseppe Andronico, Nikolay Anfimov, Vito Antonelli, Tatiana Antoshkina, João Pedro Athayde Marcondes de André, Didier Auguste, Weidong Bai, Nikita Balashov, Wander Baldini, Andrea Barresi, Davide Basilico, Eric Baussan, Marco Bellato, Marco Beretta, Antonio Bergnoli, Daniel Bick , et al. (635 additional authors not shown)

Abstract: We explore the decay of bound neutrons into invisible particles (e.g., $n\rightarrow 3 ν$ or $nn \rightarrow 2 ν$) in the JUNO liquid scintillator detector, which do not produce an observable signal. The invisible decay includes two decay modes: $ n \rightarrow { inv} $ and $ nn \rightarrow { inv} $. The invisible decays of $s$-shell neutrons in $^{12}{\rm C}$ will leave a highly excited residual… ▽ More We explore the decay of bound neutrons into invisible particles (e.g., $n\rightarrow 3 ν$ or $nn \rightarrow 2 ν$) in the JUNO liquid scintillator detector, which do not produce an observable signal. The invisible decay includes two decay modes: $ n \rightarrow { inv} $ and $ nn \rightarrow { inv} $. The invisible decays of $s$-shell neutrons in $^{12}{\rm C}$ will leave a highly excited residual nucleus. Subsequently, some de-excitation modes of the excited residual nuclei can produce a time- and space-correlated triple coincidence signal in the JUNO detector. Based on a full Monte Carlo simulation informed with the latest available data, we estimate all backgrounds, including inverse beta decay events of the reactor antineutrino $\barν_e$, natural radioactivity, cosmogenic isotopes and neutral current interactions of atmospheric neutrinos. Pulse shape discrimination and multivariate analysis techniques are employed to further suppress backgrounds. With two years of exposure, JUNO is expected to give an order of magnitude improvement compared to the current best limits. After 10 years of data taking, the JUNO expected sensitivities at a 90% confidence level are $τ/B( n \rightarrow { inv} ) > 5.0 \times 10^{31} \, {\rm yr}$ and $τ/B( nn \rightarrow { inv} ) > 1.4 \times 10^{32} \, {\rm yr}$. △ Less

Submitted 26 February, 2025; v1 submitted 27 May, 2024; originally announced May 2024.

Comments: 31 pages, 10 figures, 4 tables, Published version in EPJC

Analysis of reactor burnup simulation uncertainties for antineutrino spectrum prediction

Authors: A. Barresi, M. Borghesi, A. Cammi, D. Chiesa, L. Loi, M. Nastasi, E. Previtali, M. Sisti, S. Aiello, G. Andronico, V. Antonelli, D. Basilico, M. Beretta, A. Bergnoli, A. Brigatti, R. Brugnera, R. Bruno, A. Budano, B. Caccianiga, V. Cerrone, R. Caruso, C. Clementi, S. Dusini, A. Fabbri, G. Felici , et al. (42 additional authors not shown)

Abstract: Nuclear reactors are a source of electron antineutrinos due to the presence of unstable fission products that undergo $β^-$ decay. They will be exploited by the JUNO experiment to determine the neutrino mass ordering and to get very precise measurements of the neutrino oscillation parameters. This requires the reactor antineutrino spectrum to be characterized as precisely as possible both through… ▽ More Nuclear reactors are a source of electron antineutrinos due to the presence of unstable fission products that undergo $β^-$ decay. They will be exploited by the JUNO experiment to determine the neutrino mass ordering and to get very precise measurements of the neutrino oscillation parameters. This requires the reactor antineutrino spectrum to be characterized as precisely as possible both through high resolution measurements, as foreseen by the TAO experiment, and detailed simulation models. In this paper we present a benchmark analysis utilizing Serpent Monte Carlo simulations in comparison with real pressurized water reactor spent fuel data. Our objective is to study the accuracy of fission fraction predictions as a function of different reactor simulation approximations. Then, utilizing the BetaShape software, we construct fissile antineutrino spectra using the summation method, thereby assessing the influence of simulation uncertainties on reactor antineutrino spectrum. △ Less

Submitted 30 October, 2024; v1 submitted 21 November, 2023; originally announced November 2023.

Journal ref: Eur. Phys. J. Plus 139, 952 (2024)

Real-time Monitoring for the Next Core-Collapse Supernova in JUNO

Authors: Angel Abusleme, Thomas Adam, Shakeel Ahmad, Rizwan Ahmed, Sebastiano Aiello, Muhammad Akram, Abid Aleem, Fengpeng An, Qi An, Giuseppe Andronico, Nikolay Anfimov, Vito Antonelli, Tatiana Antoshkina, Burin Asavapibhop, João Pedro Athayde Marcondes de André, Didier Auguste, Weidong Bai, Nikita Balashov, Wander Baldini, Andrea Barresi, Davide Basilico, Eric Baussan, Marco Bellato, Marco Beretta, Antonio Bergnoli , et al. (606 additional authors not shown)

Abstract: The core-collapse supernova (CCSN) is considered one of the most energetic astrophysical events in the universe. The early and prompt detection of neutrinos before (pre-SN) and during the supernova (SN) burst presents a unique opportunity for multi-messenger observations of CCSN events. In this study, we describe the monitoring concept and present the sensitivity of the system to pre-SN and SN neu… ▽ More The core-collapse supernova (CCSN) is considered one of the most energetic astrophysical events in the universe. The early and prompt detection of neutrinos before (pre-SN) and during the supernova (SN) burst presents a unique opportunity for multi-messenger observations of CCSN events. In this study, we describe the monitoring concept and present the sensitivity of the system to pre-SN and SN neutrinos at the Jiangmen Underground Neutrino Observatory (JUNO), a 20 kton liquid scintillator detector currently under construction in South China. The real-time monitoring system is designed to ensure both prompt alert speed and comprehensive coverage of progenitor stars. It incorporates prompt monitors on the electronic board as well as online monitors at the data acquisition stage. Assuming a false alert rate of 1 per year, this monitoring system exhibits sensitivity to pre-SN neutrinos up to a distance of approximately 1.6 (0.9) kiloparsecs and SN neutrinos up to about 370 (360) kiloparsecs for a progenitor mass of 30 solar masses, considering both normal and inverted mass ordering scenarios. The pointing ability of the CCSN is evaluated by analyzing the accumulated event anisotropy of inverse beta decay interactions from pre-SN or SN neutrinos. This, along with the early alert, can play a crucial role in facilitating follow-up multi-messenger observations of the next galactic or nearby extragalactic CCSN. △ Less

Submitted 4 December, 2023; v1 submitted 13 September, 2023; originally announced September 2023.

Comments: 24 pages, 9 figures, accepted for the publication at JCAP

JUNO sensitivity to the annihilation of MeV dark matter in the galactic halo

Authors: JUNO Collaboration, Angel Abusleme, Thomas Adam, Shakeel Ahmad, Rizwan Ahmed, Sebastiano Aiello, Muhammad Akram, Abid Aleem, Tsagkarakis Alexandros, Fengpeng An, Qi An, Giuseppe Andronico, Nikolay Anfimov, Vito Antonelli, Tatiana Antoshkina, Burin Asavapibhop, João Pedro Athayde Marcondes de André, Didier Auguste, Weidong Bai, Nikita Balashov, Wander Baldini, Andrea Barresi, Davide Basilico, Eric Baussan, Marco Bellato , et al. (581 additional authors not shown)

Abstract: We discuss JUNO sensitivity to the annihilation of MeV dark matter in the galactic halo via detecting inverse beta decay reactions of electron anti-neutrinos resulting from the annihilation. We study possible backgrounds to the signature, including the reactor neutrinos, diffuse supernova neutrino background, charged- and neutral-current interactions of atmospheric neutrinos, backgrounds from muon… ▽ More We discuss JUNO sensitivity to the annihilation of MeV dark matter in the galactic halo via detecting inverse beta decay reactions of electron anti-neutrinos resulting from the annihilation. We study possible backgrounds to the signature, including the reactor neutrinos, diffuse supernova neutrino background, charged- and neutral-current interactions of atmospheric neutrinos, backgrounds from muon-induced fast neutrons and cosmogenic isotopes. A fiducial volume cut, as well as the pulse shape discrimination and the muon veto are applied to suppress the above backgrounds. It is shown that JUNO sensitivity to the thermally averaged dark matter annihilation rate in 10 years of exposure would be significantly better than the present-day best limit set by Super-Kamiokande and would be comparable to that expected by Hyper-Kamiokande. △ Less

Submitted 13 September, 2023; v1 submitted 15 June, 2023; originally announced June 2023.

Comments: 25 pages, 9 figures, matches the publised version

Journal ref: JCAP 09 (2023) 001

A first test of CUPID prototypal light detectors with NTD-Ge sensors in a pulse-tube cryostat

Authors: CUPID collaboration, K. Alfonso, A. Armatol, C. Augier, F. T. Avignone III, O. Azzolini, M. Balata, A. S. Barabash, G. Bari, A. Barresi, D. Baudin, F. Bellini, G. Benato, V. Berest, M. Beretta, M. Bettelli, M. Biassoni, J. Billard, V. Boldrini, A. Branca, C. Brofferio, C. Bucci, J. Camilleri, A. Campani, C. Capelli , et al. (154 additional authors not shown)

Abstract: CUPID is a next-generation bolometric experiment aiming at searching for neutrinoless double-beta decay with ~250 kg of isotopic mass of $^{100}$Mo. It will operate at $\sim$10 mK in a cryostat currently hosting a similar-scale bolometric array for the CUORE experiment at the Gran Sasso National Laboratory (Italy). CUPID will be based on large-volume scintillating bolometers consisting of… ▽ More CUPID is a next-generation bolometric experiment aiming at searching for neutrinoless double-beta decay with ~250 kg of isotopic mass of $^{100}$Mo. It will operate at $\sim$10 mK in a cryostat currently hosting a similar-scale bolometric array for the CUORE experiment at the Gran Sasso National Laboratory (Italy). CUPID will be based on large-volume scintillating bolometers consisting of $^{100}$Mo-enriched Li$_2$MoO$_4$ crystals, facing thin Ge-wafer-based bolometric light detectors. In the CUPID design, the detector structure is novel and needs to be validated. In particular, the CUORE cryostat presents a high level of mechanical vibrations due to the use of pulse tubes and the effect of vibrations on the detector performance must be investigated. In this paper we report the first test of the CUPID-design bolometric light detectors with NTD-Ge sensors in a dilution refrigerator equipped with a pulse tube in an above-ground lab. Light detectors are characterized in terms of sensitivity, energy resolution, pulse time constants, and noise power spectrum. Despite the challenging noisy environment due to pulse-tube-induced vibrations, we demonstrate that all the four tested light detectors comply with the CUPID goal in terms of intrinsic energy resolution of 100 eV RMS baseline noise. Indeed, we have measured 70--90 eV RMS for the four devices, which show an excellent reproducibility. We have also obtained outstanding energy resolutions at the 356 keV line from a $^{133}$Ba source with one light detector achieving 0.71(5) keV FWHM, which is -- to our knowledge -- the best ever obtained when compared to $γ$ detectors of any technology in this energy range. △ Less

Submitted 10 April, 2023; originally announced April 2023.

Comments: Prepared for submission to JINST; 16 pages, 7 figures, and 1 table

Twelve-crystal prototype of Li$_2$MoO$_4$ scintillating bolometers for CUPID and CROSS experiments

Authors: CUPID, CROSS collaborations, :, K. Alfonso, A. Armatol, C. Augier, F. T. Avignone III, O. Azzolini, M. Balata, I. C. Bandac, A. S. Barabash, G. Bari, A. Barresi, D. Baudin, F. Bellini, G. Benato, V. Berest, M. Beretta, M. Bettelli, M. Biassoni, J. Billard, V. Boldrini, A. Branca, C. Brofferio, C. Bucci , et al. (160 additional authors not shown)

Abstract: An array of twelve 0.28 kg lithium molybdate (LMO) low-temperature bolometers equipped with 16 bolometric Ge light detectors, aiming at optimization of detector structure for CROSS and CUPID double-beta decay experiments, was constructed and tested in a low-background pulse-tube-based cryostat at the Canfranc underground laboratory in Spain. Performance of the scintillating bolometers was studied… ▽ More An array of twelve 0.28 kg lithium molybdate (LMO) low-temperature bolometers equipped with 16 bolometric Ge light detectors, aiming at optimization of detector structure for CROSS and CUPID double-beta decay experiments, was constructed and tested in a low-background pulse-tube-based cryostat at the Canfranc underground laboratory in Spain. Performance of the scintillating bolometers was studied depending on the size of phonon NTD-Ge sensors glued to both LMO and Ge absorbers, shape of the Ge light detectors (circular vs. square, from two suppliers), in different light collection conditions (with and without reflector, with aluminum coated LMO crystal surface). The scintillating bolometer array was operated over 8 months in the low-background conditions that allowed to probe a very low, $μ$Bq/kg, level of the LMO crystals radioactive contamination by $^{228}$Th and $^{226}$Ra. △ Less

Submitted 10 April, 2023; originally announced April 2023.

Comments: Prepared for submission to JINST; 23 pages, 9 figures, and 4 tables

Generation and decay of Higgs mode in a strongly interacting Fermi gas

Authors: Andrea Barresi, Antoine Boulet, Gabriel Wlazłowski, Piotr Magierski

Abstract: We investigate the life cycle of the large amplitude Higgs mode in strongly interacting superfluid Fermi gas. Through numerical simulations with time-dependent density-functional theory and the technique of the interaction quench, we verify the previous theoretical predictions on the mode's frequency. Next, we demonstrate that the mode is dynamically unstable against external perturbation and qual… ▽ More We investigate the life cycle of the large amplitude Higgs mode in strongly interacting superfluid Fermi gas. Through numerical simulations with time-dependent density-functional theory and the technique of the interaction quench, we verify the previous theoretical predictions on the mode's frequency. Next, we demonstrate that the mode is dynamically unstable against external perturbation and qualitatively examine the emerging state after the mode decays. The post-decay state is characterized by spatial fluctuations of the order parameter and density at scales comparable to the superfluid coherence length scale. We identify similarities with FFLO states, which become more prominent at higher dimensionalities and nonzero spin imbalances. △ Less

Submitted 14 July, 2023; v1 submitted 23 March, 2023; originally announced March 2023.

Comments: Ancillary files contain reproducibility packs of numerical calculations

Journal ref: Sci. Rep. 13, 11285 (2023)

The JUNO experiment Top Tracker

Authors: JUNO Collaboration, Angel Abusleme, Thomas Adam, Shakeel Ahmad, Rizwan Ahmed, Sebastiano Aiello, Muhammad Akram, Abid Aleem, Tsagkarakis Alexandros, Fengpeng An, Qi An, Giuseppe Andronico, Nikolay Anfimov, Vito Antonelli, Tatiana Antoshkina, Burin Asavapibhop, João Pedro Athayde Marcondes de André, Didier Auguste, Weidong Bai, Nikita Balashov, Wander Baldini, Andrea Barresi, Davide Basilico, Eric Baussan, Marco Bellato , et al. (592 additional authors not shown)

Abstract: The main task of the Top Tracker detector of the neutrino reactor experiment Jiangmen Underground Neutrino Observatory (JUNO) is to reconstruct and extrapolate atmospheric muon tracks down to the central detector. This muon tracker will help to evaluate the contribution of the cosmogenic background to the signal. The Top Tracker is located above JUNO's water Cherenkov Detector and Central Detector… ▽ More The main task of the Top Tracker detector of the neutrino reactor experiment Jiangmen Underground Neutrino Observatory (JUNO) is to reconstruct and extrapolate atmospheric muon tracks down to the central detector. This muon tracker will help to evaluate the contribution of the cosmogenic background to the signal. The Top Tracker is located above JUNO's water Cherenkov Detector and Central Detector, covering about 60% of the surface above them. The JUNO Top Tracker is constituted by the decommissioned OPERA experiment Target Tracker modules. The technology used consists in walls of two planes of plastic scintillator strips, one per transverse direction. Wavelength shifting fibres collect the light signal emitted by the scintillator strips and guide it to both ends where it is read by multianode photomultiplier tubes. Compared to the OPERA Target Tracker, the JUNO Top Tracker uses new electronics able to cope with the high rate produced by the high rock radioactivity compared to the one in Gran Sasso underground laboratory. This paper will present the new electronics and mechanical structure developed for the Top Tracker of JUNO along with its expected performance based on the current detector simulation. △ Less

Submitted 9 March, 2023; originally announced March 2023.

Comments: 20 pages

Journal ref: Nucl.Instrum.Meth.A 1057 (2023) 168680

JUNO sensitivity to $^7$Be, $pep$, and CNO solar neutrinos

Authors: Angel Abusleme, Thomas Adam, Shakeel Ahmad, Rizwan Ahmed, Sebastiano Aiello, Muhammad Akram, Abid Aleem, Tsagkarakis Alexandros, Fengpeng An, Qi An, Giuseppe Andronico, Nikolay Anfimov, Vito Antonelli, Tatiana Antoshkina, Burin Asavapibhop, João Pedro Athayde Marcondes de André, Didier Auguste, Weidong Bai, Nikita Balashov, Wander Baldini, Andrea Barresi, Davide Basilico, Eric Baussan, Marco Bellato, Marco Beretta , et al. (592 additional authors not shown)

Abstract: The Jiangmen Underground Neutrino Observatory (JUNO), the first multi-kton liquid scintillator detector, which is under construction in China, will have a unique potential to perform a real-time measurement of solar neutrinos well below the few MeV threshold typical for Water Cherenkov detectors. JUNO's large target mass and excellent energy resolution are prerequisites for reaching unprecedented… ▽ More The Jiangmen Underground Neutrino Observatory (JUNO), the first multi-kton liquid scintillator detector, which is under construction in China, will have a unique potential to perform a real-time measurement of solar neutrinos well below the few MeV threshold typical for Water Cherenkov detectors. JUNO's large target mass and excellent energy resolution are prerequisites for reaching unprecedented levels of precision. In this paper, we provide estimation of the JUNO sensitivity to 7Be, pep, and CNO solar neutrinos that can be obtained via a spectral analysis above the 0.45 MeV threshold. This study is performed assuming different scenarios of the liquid scintillator radiopurity, ranging from the most opti mistic one corresponding to the radiopurity levels obtained by the Borexino experiment, up to the minimum requirements needed to perform the neutrino mass ordering determination with reactor antineutrinos - the main goal of JUNO. Our study shows that in most scenarios, JUNO will be able to improve the current best measurements on 7Be, pep, and CNO solar neutrino fluxes. We also perform a study on the JUNO capability to detect periodical time variations in the solar neutrino flux, such as the day-night modulation induced by neutrino flavor regeneration in Earth, and the modulations induced by temperature changes driven by helioseismic waves. △ Less

Submitted 7 March, 2023; originally announced March 2023.

Implementation and performances of the IPbus protocol for the JUNO Large-PMT readout electronics

Authors: Riccardo Triozzi, Andrea Serafini, Marco Bellato, Antonio Bergnoli, Matteo Bolognesi, Riccardo Brugnera, Vanessa Cerrone, Chao Chen, Barbara Clerbaux, Alberto Coppi, Daniele Corti, Flavio dal Corso, Jianmeng Dong, Wei Dou, Lei Fan, Alberto Garfagnini, Arsenii Gavrikov, Guanghua Gong, Marco Grassi, Rosa Maria Guizzetti, Shuang Hang, Cong He, Jun Hu, Roberto Isocrate, Beatrice Jelmini , et al. (107 additional authors not shown)

Abstract: The Jiangmen Underground Neutrino Observatory (JUNO) is a large neutrino detector currently under construction in China. Thanks to the tight requirements on its optical and radio-purity properties, it will be able to perform leading measurements detecting terrestrial and astrophysical neutrinos in a wide energy range from tens of keV to hundreds of MeV. A key requirement for the success of the exp… ▽ More The Jiangmen Underground Neutrino Observatory (JUNO) is a large neutrino detector currently under construction in China. Thanks to the tight requirements on its optical and radio-purity properties, it will be able to perform leading measurements detecting terrestrial and astrophysical neutrinos in a wide energy range from tens of keV to hundreds of MeV. A key requirement for the success of the experiment is an unprecedented 3% energy resolution, guaranteed by its large active mass (20 kton) and the use of more than 20,000 20-inch photo-multiplier tubes (PMTs) acquired by high-speed, high-resolution sampling electronics located very close to the PMTs. As the Front-End and Read-Out electronics is expected to continuously run underwater for 30 years, a reliable readout acquisition system capable of handling the timestamped data stream coming from the Large-PMTs and permitting to simultaneously monitor and operate remotely the inaccessible electronics had to be developed. In this contribution, the firmware and hardware implementation of the IPbus based readout protocol will be presented, together with the performances measured on final modules during the mass production of the electronics. △ Less

Submitted 20 February, 2023; originally announced February 2023.

Mass testing of the JUNO experiment 20-inch PMTs readout electronics

Authors: Alberto Coppi, Beatrice Jelmini, Marco Bellato, Antonio Bergnoli, Matteo Bolognesi, Riccardo Brugnera, Vanessa Cerrone, Chao Chen, Barbara Clerbaux, Daniele Corti, Flavio dal Corso, Jianmeng Dong, Wei Dou, Lei Fan, Alberto Garfagnini, Arsenii Gavrikov, Guanghua Gong, Marco Grassi, Rosa Maria Guizzetti, Shuang Hang, Cong He, Jun Hu, Roberto Isocrate, Xiaolu Ji, Xiaoshan Jiang , et al. (107 additional authors not shown)

Abstract: The Jiangmen Underground Neutrino Observatory (JUNO) is a multi-purpose, large size, liquid scintillator experiment under construction in China. JUNO will perform leading measurements detecting neutrinos from different sources (reactor, terrestrial and astrophysical neutrinos) covering a wide energy range (from 200 keV to several GeV). This paper focuses on the design and development of a test pro… ▽ More The Jiangmen Underground Neutrino Observatory (JUNO) is a multi-purpose, large size, liquid scintillator experiment under construction in China. JUNO will perform leading measurements detecting neutrinos from different sources (reactor, terrestrial and astrophysical neutrinos) covering a wide energy range (from 200 keV to several GeV). This paper focuses on the design and development of a test protocol for the 20-inch PMT underwater readout electronics, performed in parallel to the mass production line. In a time period of about ten months, a total number of 6950 electronic boards were tested with an acceptance yield of 99.1%. △ Less

Submitted 11 January, 2023; originally announced January 2023.

JUNO Sensitivity on Proton Decay $p\to \barνK^+$ Searches

Authors: JUNO Collaboration, Angel Abusleme, Thomas Adam, Shakeel Ahmad, Rizwan Ahmed, Sebastiano Aiello, Muhammad Akram, Fengpeng An, Qi An, Giuseppe Andronico, Nikolay Anfimov, Vito Antonelli, Tatiana Antoshkina, Burin Asavapibhop, João Pedro Athayde Marcondes de André, Didier Auguste, Nikita Balashov, Wander Baldini, Andrea Barresi, Davide Basilico, Eric Baussan, Marco Bellato, Antonio Bergnoli, Thilo Birkenfeld, Sylvie Blin , et al. (586 additional authors not shown)

Abstract: The Jiangmen Underground Neutrino Observatory (JUNO) is a large liquid scintillator detector designed to explore many topics in fundamental physics. In this paper, the potential on searching for proton decay in $p\to \barνK^+$ mode with JUNO is investigated.The kaon and its decay particles feature a clear three-fold coincidence signature that results in a high efficiency for identification. Moreov… ▽ More The Jiangmen Underground Neutrino Observatory (JUNO) is a large liquid scintillator detector designed to explore many topics in fundamental physics. In this paper, the potential on searching for proton decay in $p\to \barνK^+$ mode with JUNO is investigated.The kaon and its decay particles feature a clear three-fold coincidence signature that results in a high efficiency for identification. Moreover, the excellent energy resolution of JUNO permits to suppress the sizable background caused by other delayed signals. Based on these advantages, the detection efficiency for the proton decay via $p\to \barνK^+$ is 36.9% with a background level of 0.2 events after 10 years of data taking. The estimated sensitivity based on 200 kton-years exposure is $9.6 \times 10^{33}$ years, competitive with the current best limits on the proton lifetime in this channel. △ Less

Submitted 26 October, 2023; v1 submitted 16 December, 2022; originally announced December 2022.

Comments: 14 pages, 12 figures, an author added

Validation and integration tests of the JUNO 20-inch PMTs readout electronics

Authors: Vanessa Cerrone, Katharina von Sturm, Marco Bellato, Antonio Bergnoli, Matteo Bolognesi, Riccardo Brugnera, Chao Chen, Barbara Clerbaux, Alberto Coppi, Flavio dal Corso, Daniele Corti, Jianmeng Dong, Wei Dou, Lei Fan, Alberto Garfagnini, Guanghua Gong, Marco Grassi, Shuang Hang, Rosa Maria Guizzetti, Cong He, Jun Hu, Roberto Isocrate, Beatrice Jelmini, Xiaolu Ji, Xiaoshan Jiang , et al. (105 additional authors not shown)

Abstract: The Jiangmen Underground Neutrino Observatory (JUNO) is a large neutrino detector currently under construction in China. JUNO will be able to study the neutrino mass ordering and to perform leading measurements detecting terrestrial and astrophysical neutrinos in a wide energy range, spanning from 200 keV to several GeV. Given the ambitious physics goals of JUNO, the electronic system has to meet… ▽ More The Jiangmen Underground Neutrino Observatory (JUNO) is a large neutrino detector currently under construction in China. JUNO will be able to study the neutrino mass ordering and to perform leading measurements detecting terrestrial and astrophysical neutrinos in a wide energy range, spanning from 200 keV to several GeV. Given the ambitious physics goals of JUNO, the electronic system has to meet specific tight requirements, and a thorough characterization is required. The present paper describes the tests performed on the readout modules to measure their performances. △ Less

Submitted 16 December, 2022; originally announced December 2022.

Comments: 20 pages, 13 figures

Model Independent Approach of the JUNO $^8$B Solar Neutrino Program

Authors: JUNO Collaboration, Jie Zhao, Baobiao Yue, Haoqi Lu, Yufeng Li, Jiajie Ling, Zeyuan Yu, Angel Abusleme, Thomas Adam, Shakeel Ahmad, Rizwan Ahmed, Sebastiano Aiello, Muhammad Akram, Abid Aleem, Tsagkarakis Alexandros, Fengpeng An, Qi An, Giuseppe Andronico, Nikolay Anfimov, Vito Antonelli, Tatiana Antoshkina, Burin Asavapibhop, João Pedro Athayde Marcondes de André, Didier Auguste, Weidong Bai , et al. (579 additional authors not shown)

Abstract: The physics potential of detecting $^8$B solar neutrinos will be exploited at the Jiangmen Underground Neutrino Observatory (JUNO), in a model independent manner by using three distinct channels of the charged-current (CC), neutral-current (NC) and elastic scattering (ES) interactions. Due to the largest-ever mass of $^{13}$C nuclei in the liquid-scintillator detectors and the {expected} low backg… ▽ More The physics potential of detecting $^8$B solar neutrinos will be exploited at the Jiangmen Underground Neutrino Observatory (JUNO), in a model independent manner by using three distinct channels of the charged-current (CC), neutral-current (NC) and elastic scattering (ES) interactions. Due to the largest-ever mass of $^{13}$C nuclei in the liquid-scintillator detectors and the {expected} low background level, $^8$B solar neutrinos would be observable in the CC and NC interactions on $^{13}$C for the first time. By virtue of optimized event selections and muon veto strategies, backgrounds from the accidental coincidence, muon-induced isotopes, and external backgrounds can be greatly suppressed. Excellent signal-to-background ratios can be achieved in the CC, NC and ES channels to guarantee the $^8$B solar neutrino observation. From the sensitivity studies performed in this work, we show that JUNO, with ten years of data, can reach the {1$σ$} precision levels of 5%, 8% and 20% for the $^8$B neutrino flux, $\sin^2θ_{12}$, and $Δm^2_{21}$, respectively. It would be unique and helpful to probe the details of both solar physics and neutrino physics. In addition, when combined with SNO, the world-best precision of 3% is expected for the $^8$B neutrino flux measurement. △ Less

Submitted 6 March, 2024; v1 submitted 15 October, 2022; originally announced October 2022.

Comments: 19 pages, 7 figures, accepted version to appear in The Astrophysical Journal. Yufeng Li and Jiajie Ling are corresponding authors

Journal ref: Astrophysical Journal 965 (2024) 122

Dissipative Dynamics of Quantum Vortices in Fermionic Superfluid

Authors: Andrea Barresi, Antoine Boulet, Piotr Magierski, Gabriel Wlazłowski

Abstract: In a recent article, Kwon et al. [Nature (London) {\bf 600}, 64 (2021)] revealed nonuniversal dissipative dynamics of quantum vortices in a fermionic superfluid. The enhancement of the dissipative process is pronounced for the Bardeen-Cooper-Schrieffer interaction regime, and it was suggested that the effect is due to the presence of quasiparticles localized inside the vortex core. We test this hy… ▽ More In a recent article, Kwon et al. [Nature (London) {\bf 600}, 64 (2021)] revealed nonuniversal dissipative dynamics of quantum vortices in a fermionic superfluid. The enhancement of the dissipative process is pronounced for the Bardeen-Cooper-Schrieffer interaction regime, and it was suggested that the effect is due to the presence of quasiparticles localized inside the vortex core. We test this hypothesis through numerical simulations with time-dependent density-functional theory: a fully microscopic framework with fermionic degrees of freedom. The results of fully microscopic calculations expose the impact of the vortex-bound states on dissipative dynamics in a fermionic superfluid. Their contribution is too weak to explain the experimental measurements, and we identify that thermal effects, giving rise to mutual friction between superfluid and the normal component, dominate the observed dynamics. △ Less

Submitted 26 January, 2023; v1 submitted 2 July, 2022; originally announced July 2022.

Comments: main paper with supplemental material; ancillary files containing reproducibility packs and example movies

Journal ref: Phys. Rev. Lett. 130, 043001 (2023)

Prospects for Detecting the Diffuse Supernova Neutrino Background with JUNO

Authors: JUNO Collaboration, Angel Abusleme, Thomas Adam, Shakeel Ahmad, Rizwan Ahmed, Sebastiano Aiello, Muhammad Akram, Fengpeng An, Qi An, Giuseppe Andronico, Nikolay Anfimov, Vito Antonelli, Tatiana Antoshkina, Burin Asavapibhop, João Pedro Athayde Marcondes de André, Didier Auguste, Nikita Balashov, Wander Baldini, Andrea Barresi, Davide Basilico, Eric Baussan, Marco Bellato, Antonio Bergnoli, Thilo Birkenfeld, Sylvie Blin , et al. (577 additional authors not shown)

Abstract: We present the detection potential for the diffuse supernova neutrino background (DSNB) at the Jiangmen Underground Neutrino Observatory (JUNO), using the inverse-beta-decay (IBD) detection channel on free protons. We employ the latest information on the DSNB flux predictions, and investigate in detail the background and its reduction for the DSNB search at JUNO. The atmospheric neutrino induced n… ▽ More We present the detection potential for the diffuse supernova neutrino background (DSNB) at the Jiangmen Underground Neutrino Observatory (JUNO), using the inverse-beta-decay (IBD) detection channel on free protons. We employ the latest information on the DSNB flux predictions, and investigate in detail the background and its reduction for the DSNB search at JUNO. The atmospheric neutrino induced neutral current (NC) background turns out to be the most critical background, whose uncertainty is carefully evaluated from both the spread of model predictions and an envisaged \textit{in situ} measurement. We also make a careful study on the background suppression with the pulse shape discrimination (PSD) and triple coincidence (TC) cuts. With latest DSNB signal predictions, more realistic background evaluation and PSD efficiency optimization, and additional TC cut, JUNO can reach the significance of 3$σ$ for 3 years of data taking, and achieve better than 5$σ$ after 10 years for a reference DSNB model. In the pessimistic scenario of non-observation, JUNO would strongly improve the limits and exclude a significant region of the model parameter space. △ Less

Submitted 13 October, 2022; v1 submitted 18 May, 2022; originally announced May 2022.

Comments: 29 pages, 11 figures, final published version in JCAP

Journal ref: JCAP 10 (2022) 033

Mass Testing and Characterization of 20-inch PMTs for JUNO

Authors: Angel Abusleme, Thomas Adam, Shakeel Ahmad, Rizwan Ahmed, Sebastiano Aiello, Muhammad Akram, Abid Aleem, Tsagkarakis Alexandros, Fengpeng An, Qi An, Giuseppe Andronico, Nikolay Anfimov, Vito Antonelli, Tatiana Antoshkina, Burin Asavapibhop, Joao Pedro Athayde Marcondes de Andre, Didier Auguste, Weidong Bai, Nikita Balashov, Wander Baldini, Andrea Barresi, Davide Basilico, Eric Baussan, Marco Bellato, Antonio Bergnoli , et al. (541 additional authors not shown)

Abstract: Main goal of the JUNO experiment is to determine the neutrino mass ordering using a 20kt liquid-scintillator detector. Its key feature is an excellent energy resolution of at least 3 % at 1 MeV, for which its instruments need to meet a certain quality and thus have to be fully characterized. More than 20,000 20-inch PMTs have been received and assessed by JUNO after a detailed testing program whic… ▽ More Main goal of the JUNO experiment is to determine the neutrino mass ordering using a 20kt liquid-scintillator detector. Its key feature is an excellent energy resolution of at least 3 % at 1 MeV, for which its instruments need to meet a certain quality and thus have to be fully characterized. More than 20,000 20-inch PMTs have been received and assessed by JUNO after a detailed testing program which began in 2017 and elapsed for about four years. Based on this mass characterization and a set of specific requirements, a good quality of all accepted PMTs could be ascertained. This paper presents the performed testing procedure with the designed testing systems as well as the statistical characteristics of all 20-inch PMTs intended to be used in the JUNO experiment, covering more than fifteen performance parameters including the photocathode uniformity. This constitutes the largest sample of 20-inch PMTs ever produced and studied in detail to date, i.e. 15,000 of the newly developed 20-inch MCP-PMTs from Northern Night Vision Technology Co. (NNVT) and 5,000 of dynode PMTs from Hamamatsu Photonics K. K.(HPK). △ Less

Submitted 17 September, 2022; v1 submitted 17 May, 2022; originally announced May 2022.

Sub-percent Precision Measurement of Neutrino Oscillation Parameters with JUNO

Authors: JUNO Collaboration, Angel Abusleme, Thomas Adam, Shakeel Ahmad, Rizwan Ahmed, Sebastiano Aiello, Muhammad Akram, Abid Aleem, Tsagkarakis Alexandros, Fengpeng An, Qi An, Giuseppe Andronico, Nikolay Anfimov, Vito Antonelli, Tatiana Antoshkina, Burin Asavapibhop, João Pedro Athayde Marcondes de André, Didier Auguste, Weidong Bai, Nikita Balashov, Wander Baldini, Andrea Barresi, Davide Basilico, Eric Baussan, Marco Bellato , et al. (581 additional authors not shown)

Abstract: JUNO is a multi-purpose neutrino observatory under construction in the south of China. This publication presents new sensitivity estimates for the measurement of the $Δm^2_{31}$, $Δm^2_{21}$, $\sin^2 θ_{12}$, and $\sin^2 θ_{13}$ oscillation parameters using reactor antineutrinos, which is one of the primary physics goals of the experiment. The sensitivities are obtained using the best knowledge av… ▽ More JUNO is a multi-purpose neutrino observatory under construction in the south of China. This publication presents new sensitivity estimates for the measurement of the $Δm^2_{31}$, $Δm^2_{21}$, $\sin^2 θ_{12}$, and $\sin^2 θ_{13}$ oscillation parameters using reactor antineutrinos, which is one of the primary physics goals of the experiment. The sensitivities are obtained using the best knowledge available to date on the location and overburden of the experimental site, the nuclear reactors in the surrounding area and beyond, the detector response uncertainties, and the reactor antineutrino spectral shape constraints expected from the TAO satellite detector. It is found that the $Δm^2_{31}$, $Δm^2_{21}$, and $\sin^2 θ_{12}$ oscillation parameters will be determined to better than 0.5% precision in six years of data collection, which represents approximately an order of magnitude improvement over existing constraints. △ Less

Submitted 27 April, 2022; originally announced April 2022.

Comments: 29 pages, 10 figures, submitted to Chinese Physics C

High precision measurement of the half-life of the 391.6 keV metastable level in 239Pu

Authors: A. Barresi, D. Chiesa, M. Nastasi, E. Previtali, M. Sisti

Abstract: Materials selection for rare event physics requires high performance detectors and customized analyses. In this context a novel $β$-$γ$ detection system, comprised of a liquid scintillator in coincidence with a HPGe, was developed with the main purpose of studying ultra trace contamination of uranium, thorium and potassium in liquid samples. In the search for $^{238}\textrm{U}$ contaminations thro… ▽ More Materials selection for rare event physics requires high performance detectors and customized analyses. In this context a novel $β$-$γ$ detection system, comprised of a liquid scintillator in coincidence with a HPGe, was developed with the main purpose of studying ultra trace contamination of uranium, thorium and potassium in liquid samples. In the search for $^{238}\textrm{U}$ contaminations through neutron activation analysis, since the activation product $^{239}\textrm{Np}$ decays to a relatively long-lived isomeric state of $^{239}\textrm{Pu}$, it is possible to perform a time selection of these events obtaining a strong background suppression. Investigating the time distribution of the coincidences between the $β^-$ decay of $^{239}\textrm{Np}$ and the delayed events following the de-excitation of the $^{239}\textrm{Pu}$ isomeric level at 391.6 keV, a precision measurement of the half-life of this level was conducted. The half-life of the 391.6 keV $^{239}\textrm{Pu}$ level resulted $190.2 \pm 0.2$ ns, thus increasing the precision by about a factor of 20 over previous measurements. △ Less

Submitted 23 March, 2022; originally announced March 2022.

Comments: Accepted for publication in PRC

Toward CUPID-1T

Authors: A. Armatol, C. Augier, F. T. Avignone III, O. Azzolini, M. Balata, K. Ballen, A. S. Barabash, G. Bari, A. Barresi, D. Baudin, F. Bellini, G. Benato, M. Beretta, M. Bettelli, M. Biassoni, J. Billard, V. Boldrini, A. Branca, C. Brofferio, C. Bucci, J. Camilleri, C. Capelli, S. Capelli, L. Cappelli, L. Cardani , et al. (150 additional authors not shown)

Abstract: Current experiments to search for broken lepton-number symmetry through the observation of neutrinoless double-beta decay ($0\mathrm{νββ}$) provide the most stringent limits on the Majorana nature of neutrinos and the effective Majorana neutrino mass ($m_{ββ}$). The next-generation experiments will focus on the sensitivity to the $0\mathrm{νββ}$ half-life of $\mathcal{O}(10^{27}$--$10^{28}$~years… ▽ More Current experiments to search for broken lepton-number symmetry through the observation of neutrinoless double-beta decay ($0\mathrm{νββ}$) provide the most stringent limits on the Majorana nature of neutrinos and the effective Majorana neutrino mass ($m_{ββ}$). The next-generation experiments will focus on the sensitivity to the $0\mathrm{νββ}$ half-life of $\mathcal{O}(10^{27}$--$10^{28}$~years$)$ and $m_{ββ}\lesssim15$~meV, which would provide complete coverage of the so-called Inverted Ordering region of the neutrino mass parameter space. By taking advantage of recent technological breakthroughs, new, future calorimetric experiments at the 1-ton scale can increase the sensitivity by at least another order of magnitude, exploring the large fraction of the parameter space that corresponds to the Normal neutrino mass ordering. In case of a discovery, such experiments could provide important insights toward a new understanding of the mechanism of $0\mathrm{νββ}$. We present here a series of projects underway that will provide advancements in background reduction, cryogenic readout, and physics searches beyond $0\mathrm{νββ}$, all moving toward the next-to-next generation CUPID-1T detector. △ Less

Submitted 8 April, 2022; v1 submitted 16 March, 2022; originally announced March 2022.

Comments: contribution to Snowmass 2021

Optimization of the first CUPID detector module

Authors: CUPID collaboration, A. Armatol, C. Augier, F. T. Avignone III, O. Azzolini, M. Balata, K. Ballen, A. S. Barabash, G. Bari, A. Barresi, D. Baudin, F. Bellini, G. Benato, M. Beretta, M. Bettelli, M. Biassoni, J. Billard, V. Boldrini, A. Branca, C. Brofferio, C. Bucci, J. Camilleri, C. Capelli, S. Capelli, L. Cappelli , et al. (153 additional authors not shown)

Abstract: CUPID will be a next generation experiment searching for the neutrinoless double $β$ decay, whose discovery would establish the Majorana nature of the neutrino. Based on the experience achieved with the CUORE experiment, presently taking data at LNGS, CUPID aims to reach a background free environment by means of scintillating Li$_{2}$$^{100}$MoO$_4$ crystals coupled to light detectors. Indeed, the… ▽ More CUPID will be a next generation experiment searching for the neutrinoless double $β$ decay, whose discovery would establish the Majorana nature of the neutrino. Based on the experience achieved with the CUORE experiment, presently taking data at LNGS, CUPID aims to reach a background free environment by means of scintillating Li$_{2}$$^{100}$MoO$_4$ crystals coupled to light detectors. Indeed, the simultaneous heat and light detection allows us to reject the dominant background of $α$ particles, as proven by the CUPID-0 and CUPID-Mo demonstrators. In this work we present the results of the first test of the CUPID baseline module. In particular, we propose a new optimized detector structure and light sensors design to enhance the engineering and the light collection, respectively. We characterized the heat detectors, achieving an energy resolution of (5.9 $\pm$ 0.2) keV FWHM at the $Q$-value of $^{100}$Mo (about 3034 keV). We studied the light collection of the baseline CUPID design with respect to an alternative configuration which features gravity-assisted light detectors' mounting. In both cases we obtained an improvement in the light collection with respect to past measures and we validated the particle identification capability of the detector, which ensures an $α$ particle rejection higher than 99.9%, fully satisfying the requirements for CUPID. △ Less

Submitted 13 February, 2022; originally announced February 2022.

Comments: 10 pages, 5 figures

Damping signatures at JUNO, a medium-baseline reactor neutrino oscillation experiment

Authors: JUNO collaboration, Jun Wang, Jiajun Liao, Wei Wang, Angel Abusleme, Thomas Adam, Shakeel Ahmad, Rizwan Ahmed, Sebastiano Aiello, Muhammad Akram, Fengpeng An, Qi An, Giuseppe Andronico, Nikolay Anfimov, Vito Antonelli, Tatiana Antoshkina, Burin Asavapibhop, João Pedro Athayde Marcondes de André, Didier Auguste, Andrej Babic, Nikita Balashov, Wander Baldini, Andrea Barresi, Davide Basilico, Eric Baussan , et al. (582 additional authors not shown)

Abstract: We study damping signatures at the Jiangmen Underground Neutrino Observatory (JUNO), a medium-baseline reactor neutrino oscillation experiment. These damping signatures are motivated by various new physics models, including quantum decoherence, $ν_3$ decay, neutrino absorption, and wave packet decoherence. The phenomenological effects of these models can be characterized by exponential damping fac… ▽ More We study damping signatures at the Jiangmen Underground Neutrino Observatory (JUNO), a medium-baseline reactor neutrino oscillation experiment. These damping signatures are motivated by various new physics models, including quantum decoherence, $ν_3$ decay, neutrino absorption, and wave packet decoherence. The phenomenological effects of these models can be characterized by exponential damping factors at the probability level. We assess how well JUNO can constrain these damping parameters and how to disentangle these different damping signatures at JUNO. Compared to current experimental limits, JUNO can significantly improve the limits on $τ_3/m_3$ in the $ν_3$ decay model, the width of the neutrino wave packet $σ_x$, and the intrinsic relative dispersion of neutrino momentum $σ_{\rm rel}$. △ Less

Submitted 14 June, 2022; v1 submitted 29 December, 2021; originally announced December 2021.

Comments: 17 pages, 2 figures, 4 tables. Version published in JHEP

Journal ref: JHEP06(2022)062