DAMA/LIBRA-Phase2: Sampling Measurements And Search For Relic Dark Matter Particles.pdf

Bernabei regarding the DAMA/LIBRA-phase2 experiment and its search for dark matter (DM) particles.

Experiment Overview:

DAMA/LIBRA-phase2 builds upon earlier phases of the DAMA collaboration's efforts, utilizing various detectors to probe DM candidates:

DAMA/R&D, DAMA/LXe, DAMA/Ge: Low background experiments focusing on different interaction types.
DAMA/NaI: The main experiment using NaI(Tl) scintillators, known for its high light yield and sensitivity to various DM candidates.

Accelerators and Dark Matter:

The document emphasizes the limitations of accelerators in proving the existence of specific DM candidates or claiming them as the solution. While accelerators can help narrow down candidate masses and interaction types, they cannot definitively identify a single particle as the dominant DM component.

Advantages of DAMA/NaI(Tl):

DAMA/NaI(Tl) is highlighted for several reasons:

Versatility: Sensitive to high and low mass candidates, including those producing electromagnetic radiation.
High Duty Cycle & Large Mass: Capable of continuous operation with large detector masses, allowing for increased sensitivity.
Low Radioactivity: Achieves high radiopurity through selection, purification, and operational controls.
Cost-Effective: Relatively inexpensive compared to other proposed techniques.
Model Independent Signature: The annual modulation signature of DM interactions in the galactic halo provides a powerful, model-independent probe.

Key Requirements for Annual Modulation Detection:

A successful detection of the DM annual modulation requires:

Large, low-background detectors.
Efficient control and monitoring of experimental conditions.
High statistical significance to overcome potential background fluctuations.

Conclusion:

DAMA/LIBRA-phase2, leveraging its NaI(Tl) target material and unique sensitivity, aims to make significant contributions to the understanding of dark matter through its model-independent annual modulation signature.