Axion-like Particle searches using CsI (Tl) scintillation detector.

One of the interesting goals of particle physicists is to identify hidden particles that account for more than 25% of the universe's energy budget, surpassing normal matter's contribution of only 5%. These concealed particles are collectively known as dark matter. Among the potential candidates are Axion-Like Particles (ALPs), which are hypothetical elementary particles originating from the quantization of CP symmetry-conserving fields in strong interactions. The significant feature of axions is their minimal interaction cross-section with standard model particles, making them promising candidates for dark matter.

The search for ALPs typically relies on their decay to gammas. To facilitate this, we've developed a CsI (Tl) (Thallium-doped Cesium Iodide) scintillation detector capable of capturing gammas, enhancing our ability to detect ALPs. I will introduce the prior work of a graduate student who explored ALP searches using high-energy gamma flux from a reactor. Additionally, I will present my research focused on ALP production from gamma radiation emitted by a Na22 radioactive source. Furthermore, I'll discuss the potential future deployment of this detector at LANL (Los Alamos National Laboratory), where the search for axions or ALPs will continue in a proton beam environment.

Despite the very weak interaction strength governing gamma-ALP decay, strategically placing the detector near sources of very high gamma flux ensures that statistical limitations are mitigated. This approach increases the likelihood of detecting axion signals and prevents limitations imposed by statistical constraints.