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All sourcesNASA NTRSDOE OSTI
DOE OSTI2025

Status of the Mu2e experiment

The Mu2e experiment at Fermilab searches for the coherent, neutrino-less conversion of a μ − to e − in the Coulomb field of Al nuclei, that represents one of the cleanest Charged Lepton Flavor Violating (CLFV) processes for exploring Beyond the Standard Model (BSM) physics. Mu2e aims to improve previous sensitivity by four orders of magnitude, with a distinctive signature provided by identifying mono-energetic electrons with energy slightly below the muon rest mass. To reach this goal, the experiment will use the highest intensity pulsed muon beam in the world, with up to 6 × 1 0 9 stopped muons/sec. This is achieved using the Fermilab proton beam and the design and realization of a unique 25 m long superconducting solenoidal system. The high beam intensity relies upon minimizing beam losses in the slow extraction region, indicating an opportunity of using bent crystals for shadowing. A high-resolution straw tracker and a fast CsI crystal calorimeter identify the conversion electron. Both detectors are inserted behind the Stopping Target in the last solenoid section. A Cosmic Ray Veto covers a large part of the solenoids to suppress background produced by cosmic rays. In this paper, we report the details of the experimental layout, the construction status of the magnetic system and detectors, and a short description of the simulation and realization of the bent crystals. Performing crystal channeling in front of the first slow extraction septa will allow beam shadowing and largely reduce beam losses. •Charge Lepton Flavor Violation processes: μ − → e − conversion.•Large Superconducting Solenoid system.•High-Intensity beams•High precision detectors.•Crystal channeling.

46 INSTRUMENTATION RELATED TO NUCLEAR SCIENCE AND ↗
DOE OSTI2025

Multi-track reconstruction algorithms in the Mu2e experiment

The Mu2e experiment, under construction at Fermilab, will search for the neutrino-less coherent µ−N → e−N conversion in the field of a 27 Al nucleus, a CLFV process. While the main goal of the experiment is to reconstruct the conversion electron, i.e., an event with a single track, there are motivations to develop an efficient tracking algorithm for reconstructing more simultaneous tracks. This could better constrain the background generated by p¯-annihilation in the Al target and search for Beyond the Standard Model processes. In this paper, we present the algorithms designed to reconstruct multi-particle events.

Ricci, Alessandro Maria [Pisa U.; INFN, Pisa] (ORC↗
DOE OSTI2022

Development and construction status of the Mu2e electromagnetic calorimeter mechanical structures

Abstract The Mu2e experiment at Fermilab will search for the CLFV neutrino-less coherent conversion of a muon into an electron in the field of an aluminum nucleus. The observation of this process would be the evidence of physics beyond the Standard Model. Mu2e comprises a straw-tracker, an electromagnetic calorimeter and an external veto for cosmic rays. The calorimeter provides electron identification, a fast trigger and aids track reconstruction. It is a state-of-the-art crystal calorimeter and employs 1340 pure CsI crystals readout by UV-extended SiPM and fast electronics. The design consists of two identical annular disks positioned at the relative distance of 70 cm downstream the target.The hostile Mu2e conditions (total ionizing dose of 12 krad and a neutron fluence of 5 × 10 10 n/cm 2 @ 1 MeVeq (Si)/y, 1 T magnetic field and vacuum level of 10 −4 Torr) posed tight constraints on the mechanical structures and materials choice. The support structure of the two crystal matrices employs two aluminum hollow rings and parts made of open-cell vacuum-compatible carbon fiber. SiPMs and front-end electronics for each crystal are assembled in one mechanical unit inserted in a machined copper holder. The units are supported by a plate made of vacuum-compatible material. The plate integrates the cooling system made of a network of copper lines flowing a low temperature fluid and placed in thermal contact with the copper holders. The DAQ is hosted in aluminum crates positioned on the lateral surface of the disks. The crates also integrate the DAQ electronics cooling system. We review the constraints on the calorimeter structures design, the development of all the structural components, including the simulations that have determined the materials and technological choices and the specifications of the cooling station, components production and quality assurance tests, the procedures for detector assembly, transportation and installation in the experimental area.

Instruments & Instrumentation↗
DOE OSTI2022

Next-to-leading order scalar contributions to 𝜇→𝑒 conversion

Within a class of models in which lepton flavor violation is induced dominantly by scalar particle exchanges, we estimate the 𝜇→𝑒 conversion rate in several nuclei. We include next-to-leading order (NLO) terms in the one- and two-nucleon interactions in chiral effective theory, rectifying some incorrect results in the previous literature. We provide an uncertainty budget for the conversion rates and we find that NLO contributions affect the amplitudes at the level of 10%, which could be larger than the uncertainty on the leading order couplings, dominated by the strange and nonstrange nucleon sigma terms. We study the implications of our results for testing Higgs-mediated charged lepton flavor violation (CLFV) in the future by combining results from various experimental searches, such as 𝜇→𝑒 conversion in multiple target nuclei and 𝜇→𝑒⁢𝛾.

73 NUCLEAR PHYSICS AND RADIATION PHYSICS↗
DOE OSTI2024

Developing a data-driven method to constrain the antiproton background in the Mu2e experiment

The Mu2e experiment will search for CLFV neutrinoless coherent muon to electron conversion in the field of an Al nucleus. The expected signal is a 104.97 MeV/c monochromatic $e^-$ (CE). CE-like $e^-$’s could also come from $\bar{p}$’s annihilating in the Stopping Target (ST). The background induced by $\bar{p}$’s is expected to be low but has a large systematic uncertainty. It cannot be suppressed by the time window cut used to reduce the prompt background. However, $p\bar{p}$ annihilation in the ST is the only source of events in the Mu2e detector with multiple tracks coming from the ST, simultaneous in time, each with a momentum in the signal window region. We exploited this unique feature and developed algorithms to identify and reconstruct multi-track events. This paper discusses the status and prospects of this data-driven method to constrain the $\bar{p}$ background at Mu2e.

46 INSTRUMENTATION RELATED TO NUCLEAR SCIENCE AND ↗
DOE OSTI2026

Development of a pattern recognition algorithm for reconstructing multi-particle events in the Mu2e detector

Mu2e is an upcoming experiment at Fermilab and its main goal is to search for the Charged Lepton Flavor Violation (CLFV) in the coherent transition of a muon into an electron on an Al target. In Mu2e, multi-particle events can occur simultaneously within the same time region and it is crucial to accurately identify each particle track, including signals, to improve the robustness of track finding methods and enhance reconstruction efficiency. ¯p annihilation is one of the background events and produces multiple particles that can mimic signal events. Additionally, photons from radiative pion captures can produce a γ → $e+e−$ pair, which can be used to calibrate the Mu2e momentum scale and the resolution. The Mu2e track reconstruction sequence begins by grouping hits produced in the tracker based on time and z coordinate information, called TimeCluster, and selected hits are processed to reconstruct helices and determine their momentum. The current pattern recognition algorithms identify a single helix per TimeCluster for single track events. A new pattern recognition algorithm is being developed to reconstruct multi-particle events and its features for finding multiple tracks and the current evaluation results are reported.

Kitagawa, H. [Pisa U.]↗
DOE OSTI2025

A data-driven method to estimate the antiproton background in Mu2e

The Mu2e experiment will search for the CLFV process of neutrinoless, coherent conversion of muon to electron in the field of an Al nucleus. One of the expected backgrounds is antiprotons produced by the proton beam at the Production Target and annihilating in the Stopping Target to produce signal-like electrons. Although not a dominant background, it has a large uncertainty and cannot be suppressed by the timing cuts used to reduce the prompt background. However, at Mu2e energies, $p\bar{p}$ annihilation is the only source of events with multiple, simultaneous particles coming from the Stopping Target. We utilized this unique feature and developed a novel approach to reconstruct multi-track events and estimate the antiproton background.

Chithirasreemadam, Namitha [Pisa U.; INFN, Pisa]↗
DOE OSTI2023

Fermilab Upgrades and a Future Muon Program

We provide a path for a future muon-based CLFV program could be performed at Fermilab and discuss synergies with Muon Collider efforts.

72 PHYSICS OF ELEMENTARY PARTICLES AND FIELDS↗
DOE OSTI2023

Mu2e - Extinction Monitor Research & Development

Current efforts are being conducted at Fermi National Laboratory to study potential violations in accepted theory that would otherwise suggest a restructuring of our fundamental understanding of the universe. Mu2e is one of these frontier projects that studies charged lepton flavor violation (CLFV) which if observed, would suggest physics beyond the Standard Model. Therefore, this note encompasses several projects that contribute to the fruition of Mu2e investigations. Due to the broad range of disciplinary inconsistencies that each project requires, all the work is being presented as a means of justifying contribution to Mu2e. The projects are comprised of a G4Beamline simulation analyzing 8GeV proton beam interaction with a titanium window of Recycler ring extinction rates using three Cherenkov radiation-based detectors and supplemental work for the implementation of a micro–Telecommunications Computing Architecture (MicroTCA) crate to establish a peak finding algorithm to ensure that the out-of-time beam is less than 10^-10 fractional level along with inefficiency analysis on scintillation counters for the Cosmic-Ray Veto (CRV) analysis. Preliminary results have been achieved for extinction rate simulation by achieving coincidence rates for 2/3-fold and 3/3-fold on the detectors in the order of 10^-9 and 10^-10, respectively. Only preliminary results of a triangular counter and four rectangular di-counters for the CRV have been realized but other non-experimental contributions were made to the development of the MicroTCA crate.

72 PHYSICS OF ELEMENTARY PARTICLES AND FIELDS↗
DOE OSTI2024

Neutrino Program at Fermilab - Enhancing Proton Beam Power and Accelerator Infrastructure

The upcoming long baseline neutrino experiments aim to enhance proton beam power to multi-MW scale and utilize large-scale detectors to address the challenge of limited event statistics. The DUNE experiment at LBNF will test the three-neutrino flavor paradigm and directly search for CP violation by studying oscillation signatures in the high intensity (anti-) beam to (anti-) measured over a long baseline. Higher beam power and improved accelerator up-time will enhance neutrino flux for the neutrino program by increasing the number of protons on target. LBNF/DUNE, as well as PIP-II upgrade and Accelerator Complex Evolution (ACE) plan, play a vital role in this effort. The scientific potential of ACE plan extends beyond neutrino physics, encompassing endeavors such as the Muon Collider, Charged Lepton Flavor Violation (CLFV), Dark Sectors, and exploration of neutrinos beyond DUNE.\par In the era of higher-power accelerator operation, research in target materials and beam instrumentation is crucial for optimizing design modifications. This abstract discusses Fermilab ACE, the science opportunities it provides, and how Fermilab is pushing the limits of proton beam power and accelerator infrastructure. By tackling neutrino beam challenges and exploring research and development ideas, we are advancing our understanding of fundamental particles and their interactions.

72 PHYSICS OF ELEMENTARY PARTICLES AND FIELDS↗
DOE OSTI2024

The Mu2e Experiment and Progress in the Year 2024

The Mu2e Experiment is a search for Charged Lepton Flavor Violation (CLFV) in the process of a coherent neutrinoless mu- N -> e- N transition. This process is allowed under the Standard Model in the presence of neutrino mixing; albeit, at unobservable rates (branching ratio below 10-50). The sensitivity of the Mu2e experiment is a factor of 104 improvement over the current limit. This search both compliments and extends current searches for muon to electron+gamma at MEG and new physics searches at the LHC. Another interesting process that Mu2e will search for is the neutrionless conversion of stopped negative muons into positrons: mu- N -> e+ N'. This process violates both lepton flavor and lepton number (LNV) and would provide proof that neutrinos are Majorana particles. Progress has been made in many areas in preparation for beam. A description of the Mu2e Experiment and a synopsis of this experiment s progress in the year 2024 towards data collection will be presented.

46 INSTRUMENTATION RELATED TO NUCLEAR SCIENCE AND ↗
DOE OSTI2022

Measurement of the gas gain and understanding the gas flow in the Mu2e Tracker

The Mu2e experiment will search for the charged-lepton flavor violating (CLFV) neutrinoless conversion of a negative muon into an electron in the field of an Aluminum nucleus µ − N → e − N. The signature of this process is the emission of a monochromatic electron with an energy of 104.97 MeV. The Mu2e Tracker is a low mass straw tube detector, whose aim is to measure the position and the momentum of the electron. In past measurements, high values of currents were found in some panels of the Tracker in absence of any radioactive sources. In this report new measurements of currents, that were taken with the panel MN084 of the Mu2e Tracker are described. Moreover, the addition of a small amount of water vapour in the gas mixture and the influence of the environmental conditions on the currents of the panel are studied.

47 OTHER INSTRUMENTATION↗
DOE OSTI2022

Design and test of a special magnet for the Mu2e experiment

The Mu2e experiment (Muon-to-Electron Conversion Experiment) is looking for evidence that a muon can change into an electron without the emission of neutrinos. The experiment will search for the charged-lepton flavor violating (CLFV) neutrino-less conversion of a negative muon into an electron in the field of a nucleus. The conversion process results in a monochromatic electron with an energy of 104.97 MeV, slightly below the muon rest mass. The goal of the experiment is to improve the previous upper limit by four orders of magnitude and reach a SES (single event sensitivity) of 3 × 10 -17 on the conversion rate, a 90% CL of 8 × 10 -17 , and a 5σ discovery reach at 2 × 10 -16 . The experiment will use an intense pulsed negative muon beam, which is essential to reducing backgrounds. The other essential element is a sophisticated magnetic system composed of three consecutive solenoids (figure 1) that form the muon beam.

43 PARTICLE ACCELERATORS↗
DOE OSTI2026

Fast Muon Capture Monitoring in Mu2e with the CAPHRI Detector

The Mu2e experiment at Fermilab will search for the charged lepton flavor violating (CLFV) process of a neutrinoless muon-to-electron conversion in the field of an aluminum nucleus. Reaching the experiment’s target sensitivity requires precise normalization of the physics signal through accurate monitoring of the muon capture rate on the stopping target. For this purpose, the Calorimeter Precise High-Resolution Intensity detector (CAPHRI) has been developed. The detector is composed of four LYSO crystals installed in the upstream disk of the Mu2e calorimeter and read out with the standard calorimeter readout. CAPHRI measures the muon capture rate by detecting the characteristic 1.8~MeV gamma emission line of the $^{27}Al(\mu^−, \nu n \gamma) ^{26}Mg$ nuclear reaction. The fast, precise response enables injection-by-injection monitoring of proton beam intensity fluctuations. We report on the commissioning and performance characterization of CAPHRI. The response of each channel is calibrated at two SiPM overvoltages using both the intrinsic self-emission of the LYSO crystals and cosmic ray signals. In parallel, Monte Carlo simulations are used to evaluate the detector acceptance and the expected signal-to-background ratio under realistic running conditions. Preliminary results show a crystal light yield consistent with expectations and a channel inter-calibration at the 2--4% level. Simulation studies indicate that the detector acceptance and background rejection satisfy the requirements for physics operations, with about 1000 detected events per beam injection at a beam power of 1.5~kW. These results demonstrate that CAPHRI is an effective tool for beam monitoring and signal normalization in Mu2e.

Ciccarella, V. [Frascati; U. Rome La Sapienza (mai↗
DOE OSTI2025

A data-driven method to estimate the antiproton background in Mu2e

The Mu2e experiment at Fermilab will search for the Charged Lepton Flavour Violating (CLFV) process of neutrinoless conversion of muon to electron in the field of an Al nucleus. The experimental signature is a monochromatic 104.97 MeV conversion electron. One of the expected backgrounds to the conversion electron search is antiprotons produced by the proton beam at the Production Target and annihilating in the Stopping Target (ST). The background expected from antiprotons is low but highly uncertain due to the uncertainty in the antiproton production cross section for the Mu2e beam energy in the relevant angular region. Antiprotons are significantly slower than the other beam particles, so they cannot be efficiently suppressed by the time window cut used to reduce the prompt background. At Mu2e energies, antiproton annihilation at rest in the ST is the only source of events with multiple, simultaneous particle trajectories. We utilized this unique feature and developed a novel way to reconstruct the multi-track events and estimate the antiproton background in situ.

72 PHYSICS OF ELEMENTARY PARTICLES AND FIELDS↗
DOE OSTI2026

Bent Crystal Channeling for Optimized Beam Shadowing and Proton Extraction at Mu2e

The Mu2e experiment is designed to investigate the CLFV through the observation of a neutrinoless muon-to-electron conversion in the field of an Al nucleus. The observation of such a process would be clear evidence of physics beyond the standard model. Due to the rarity of this process, a cutting-edge, intense muon beam is required to achieve an improvement of the current single-event sensitivity by 4 orders of magnitude. To achieve this goal, a primary proton beam with 8 GeV is extracted from the Fermilab Delivery Ring using the slow resonant extraction technique. Mu2e requires ~3.6x10$^{20}$ protons-on-target to meet its goal; hence, it is crucial to minimize the extraction losses. An important source of such losses are the particles impacting on the electrostatic septum blade. A very promising solution to the problem lies in the beam shadowing scheme tested at CERN SPS. In this approach, a bent crystal is strategically placed upstream of the septum, deflecting particles from the blade at a precise angle via the phenomenon of channeling. As a result, a zone with reduced particle flux is created downstream of the crystal, safeguarding the septum anode by minimizing interactions with the beam. This work explores the optimization of beam shadowing design and the process in the manufacturing and characterization of the bent crystal sample. It emphasizes the promising role of channeling in bent crystals, and it underscores the significant potential of channeling in bent crystals to assist the Mu2e experiment.

Fedeli, Pierluigi [Ferrara U.; INFN, Ferrara] (ORC↗
DOE OSTI2025

Crystal Calorimetry for Charged Lepton Flavor Violation Searches

The Mu2e experiment at Fermilab aims to search for Charged Lepton Flavor Violation (CLFV) through the coherent conversion of a muon into an electron in the field of an aluminum nucleus. This process, highly suppressed in the Standard Model, would clearly indicate new physics if observed. A crucial component of Mu2e is its electromagnetic calorimeter, which enhances the identification and measurement of conversion electrons. The calorimeter consists of two disks of undoped CsI crystals read out by custom-designed SiPMs and fast front-end electronics. This paper presents an overview of the calorimeter’s design, its custom SiPM technology, the readout and data acquisition system, and the results from commissioning tests.Building on the experience from Mu2e, the proposed Mu2e-II upgrade aims to enhance further the experiment’s sensitivity by an order of magnitude. This requires significant advancements in calorimeter technology, particularly in crystal materials and photodetector performance. Studies on BaF$_2$ and LYSO crystals, as well as the development of radiation-hard Silicon Photomultipliers (SiPMs), are currently underway. Test beam results demonstrate promising improvements in energy resolution and timing capabilities, ensuring the feasibility of next-generation calorimetry solutions for Mu2e-II.

Atanov, N. [Dubna, JINR]↗