A Brierf Exploration of Low-Threshold, Gas-Filled Detectors

Low-threshold detectors possess a wide variety of uses, such as detecting inverse $\beta$ decay. Additionally, with a sufficiently low threshold and low background, they could be sensitive enough for Coherent, Elastic Neutrino-Nucleus Scattering (CEvNS) and spin-dependent WIMP searches. Our aim was to explore prototypes and operating conditions of such gas-filled detectors. We have successfully operated at pressures from 1-30 psi (above atmosphere), and biases from 2-4 kV. These settings can be adjusted according to the desired energy range. Using an $^{55}$Fe source for calibration, we have achieved a threshold of 150 eV, under preliminary optimal conditions. As a result of moderate shielding, background radiation has been easily reduced to no more than 1000 counts kg$^{-1}$keV$^{-1}$day$^{-1}$.