Advances in MCP-PMTs: performance, challenges and beyond

Lehmann A (2026)


Publication Type: Journal article

Publication year: 2026

Journal

Book Volume: 21

Journal Issue: 4

DOI: 10.1088/1748-0221/21/04/C04093

Abstract

This compact overview discusses the current status of microchannel plate photomultipliers (MCP-PMTs). The introduction summarizes the history and currently available types of MCP-PMTs. This is followed by a presentation of important performance parameters such as the presently achievable detection efficiency, gain, and time and spatial resolution. A particular focus is placed on the measurement and status of the critical performance parameters of lifetime due to photocathode aging and rate capability. Other parameters such as darkcount rates, afterpulses, and crosstalk are also briefly discussed, and a new, unexplained effect called “escalation” is mentioned. Finally, alternative MCP designs in terms of new materials and readout options are presented, and current and future applications in high-energy physics are listed. After a summary, an outlook on the future of MCP-PMTs is given. Due to the strict length limitation for this article, only very few figures are shown. For such illustrations, the reader is referred to the numerous references indicated throughout the manuscript. Otherwise, it would not have been possible to discuss the amount of information available on this topic that should be provided in a review.

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How to cite

APA:

Lehmann, A. (2026). Advances in MCP-PMTs: performance, challenges and beyond. Journal of Instrumentation, 21(4). https://doi.org/10.1088/1748-0221/21/04/C04093

MLA:

Lehmann, Albert. "Advances in MCP-PMTs: performance, challenges and beyond." Journal of Instrumentation 21.4 (2026).

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