A Compact, Projective and Modular Ring Imaging Cherenkov Detector for Particle Identification in EIC Experiments

Particle identification (PID) of the final state hadrons is a key requirement for the Electron Ion Collider (EIC). In order to meet the challenge of the confined volume of the electron endcap in EIC experiments, a compact, projective, and modular ring imaging Cherenkov (mRICH) detector is proposed for $K/\pi$ separation from $3$ to $10$~GeV/c. The mRICH design has a significant potential for $e/\pi$ identification providing an important capability supplementing the electromagnetic calorimeters and other possible $e/\pi$ PID systems. The mRICH detector consists of an aerogel radiator block, a Fresnel lens, a mirror-wall and a photosensor plane. A successful prototype test that demonstrated the proof-of-principle was carried out at Fermi National Accelerator Laboratory in April 2016. A second beam test with a few design modifications to enhance PID performance was carried out in June 2018. This presentation will show the results from the second beam test, along with the progress on R\&D efforts for the next planned beam test that will have tracking capabilities. We will also discuss the current simulation incorporating an mRICH array into the sPHENIX experiment set-up.