Photonics for Particle Astrophysics and Sustainable Energy

 

Group leader:  Prof. Marcin Kuźniak

The group will continue its current involvement in testing and developing advanced SiPM modules (responsible for module testing for the veto detector in the DarkSide-20k experiment) as well as in developing high-performance WLS/LDS and optical materials for the DEAP-3600 and ARGO experiments, along with broader applications. The group has gained significant recognition as the originators and those responsible for the use of PEN polymer in the veto detector of DarkSide-20k.

In parallel with R&D efforts on synthesizing improved, more efficient PEN (in collaboration with IChP), the group has established connections with photovoltaic companies (cooperation agreements signed with Roltec and ML System), proposing the application of PEN or similar materials in photovoltaic cells. There is also interest from IChP in using PEN as a scintillator in handheld Geiger/radiation counters, which could benefit the national nuclear energy sector.

Staff:

Prof. Marcin Kuźniak – group leader

Dr. Michał Olszewski – postdoctoral researcher

Sarthak Choudhary – PhD student

Diego Rodas Rodriguez – PhD student