Speakers
Description
In the framework of the XLZD collaboration, we present preliminary Monte Carlo simulation studies focused on the design and optimization of the Outer Detector (OD) system. This work evaluates a baseline, XENON-like Neutron Veto configuration based on gadolinium-doped water without an integrated metallic inner vessel.
We investigate the Light Collection Efficiency (LCE) of the system by varying the total number and spatial distribution of the 8-inch PMTs. Furthermore, we assess the impact of implementing Winston cones as light concentrators to increase the effective coverage per channel, as well as the implications in terms of LCE of introducing liquid scintillator (LAB) within the water volume.
Further Monte Carlo studies are ongoing aiming to systematically define the optimal detector dimensions and PMT number required to maximize neutron tagging efficiency, providing key inputs for a configuration that could be adopted during the initial phase of the XLZD experiment.