MICROPATTERN GASEOUS DETECTORS

Introduced in 1988, microstrip gas chambers perform considerably better than classic multiwire detectors. Excellent localization, high rate capability, and good granularity make them attractive for charged-particle tracking at high-luminosity colliders, among other applications. The technology continues to improve; for example, substrates have been developed that prevent charge accumulations. Some problems persist, namely the slow degradation under sustained irradiation (aging) and the serious damage that can result from accidental discharges. New types of detectors aim at improving on these points; the microdot, micromegas, and gas electron multiplier detectors are promising examples. They are generally more reliable and cheaper.