A CCD-based vertex detector for the future e+e− linear collider

Experiments at the future TeV-scale e+e− linear collider will require extremely high performance vertex detectors to identify heavy quarks (bottom and charm separately) in multi-jet final states. The discrimination between b and b̄, and between c and c̄ represents an additional important requirement. All studies suggest that a silicon pixel-based detector of several nested layers in a cylindrical geometry will best satisfy the physics requirements. What is far from clear is which pixel technology will be preferred. Building on the successful SLD vertex detector, the LCFI collaboration is engaged in an R&D programme to develop a Charge-coupled device-based detector. The current status of this work is reported here, as well as indications of possible applications to other areas of science.