High-resolution RPCs for large TOF systems

Here, we report on a particular type of RPC that presents up to 99% efficiency for minimum ionizing particles and a very sharp time resolution, below 50 ps σ in the most optimized conditions. Our 9 cm2 cells, made with glass and metal electrodes that form accurately spaced gaps of a few hundred micrometers, are operated at atmospheric pressure in non-flammable gases and can be economically produced in large quantities, opening perspectives for the construction of large area time-of-flight systems.