Performance of a segmented $^{6}$Li-loaded liquid scintillator detector for the PROSPECT experiment

摘要: This paper describes the design and performance of a 50 liter, two-segment $^{6}$Li-loaded liquid scintillator detector that was designed operated as prototype for PROSPECT (Precision Reactor Oscillation Spectrum) Experiment. The constructed according to specifications experiment. It features low-mass optical separators, an integrated source calibration system, materials are compatible with $^{6}$Li-doped developed by PROSPECT. We demonstrate high light collection 850$\pm$20 PE/MeV, energy resolution $\sigma$ = 4.0$\pm$0.2% at 1 MeV, efficient pulse-shape discrimination low $dE/dx$ (electronic recoil) (nuclear depositions. An effective scintillation attenuation length 85$\pm$3 cm is measured in each segment. 0.1% mass concentration $^{6}$Li results neutron capture time $\tau$ 42.8$\pm$0.2 $\mu s$. long-term stability also discussed. response meets criteria necessary achieving physics goals demonstrates may find application fast detection.