The Challenge: Complex PEEK Components and Fasteners for Dark Matter Research
Imperial College London approached us with a unique challenge. They required custom and off the shelf PEEK components and injection-moulded polymer fasteners for use in a highly specialized dark matter detection experiment. The components needed to meet incredibly stringent requirements for precision, durability, and resistance to extreme environmental conditions, as the experiment involved one of the most sensitive particle detectors in existence.Our collaboration focused on machining complex PEEK (Polyether Ether Ketone) parts, renowned for their mechanical strength, thermal stability, and chemical resistance. In addition to these components, we supplied injection-moulded fasteners, tailored to meet the unique demands of this advanced research project.
About the Project: Xenia and LUX-ZEPLIN (LZ)
The experiment, managed by scientists at Imperial College London, centered on a prototype system called Xenia, described by Henrique, one of the lead scientists on the project:“These PEEK parts are for a prototype ‘liquid xenon time projection chamber’ called Xenia, which we will be running in our lab at Imperial. Xenia is a very sensitive particle detector, the same technology as used in the large detectors operating underground in the search for dark matter particles. Our existing experiment is called LUX-ZEPLIN (LZ), and this chamber is a small prototype of LZ to further develop the technology (but while LZ has 7 tonnes of liquid xenon as active detector material, Xenia has only 1 kg of LXe). LZ is about to start operating one mile underground at the Sanford Underground Research Facility in the USA.”
The LUX-ZEPLIN (LZ) experiment, with its 7 tonnes of liquid xenon, represents one of the most ambitious efforts to detect dark matter particles—a form of matter that makes up a significant portion of the universe's mass but remains elusive to scientists. Xenia, as a smaller-scale prototype, allowing the team to refine the technology on a manageable scale before its application in larger systems.
Why PEEK? The Perfect Polymer for Particle Detectors
The choice of PEEK for this application was not accidental. Liquid xenon time projection chambers, like Xenia, demand materials that are resistant to corrosion, thermal fluctuations, and mechanical stress, all while maintaining high levels of precision. PEEK offers several critical advantages that make it ideal for this type of high-performance research:- Chemical Inertness: PEEK components do not react with liquid xenon, ensuring the integrity of the experiment.
- Dimensional Stability: The polymer maintains its shape and performance even under extreme temperatures and pressures, critical for experiments involving cryogenic liquids like liquid xenon.
- High Strength-to-Weight Ratio: This makes PEEK suitable for intricate and lightweight designs, ensuring structural integrity without adding unnecessary bulk.
- Low Outgassing: PEEK minimizes the release of gases in vacuum environments, which is crucial in maintaining the purity of sensitive detectors.
Our ability to machine complex geometries from PEEK ensured the components met the exact specifications needed for Xenia’s intricate design. Coupled with our injection-moulded fasteners, which provided secure and corrosion-resistant assembly, the system was ready for rigorous testing.
The Impact of Collaboration
By delivering precisely engineered PEEK components and fasteners, we enabled the team at Imperial College London to further develop groundbreaking technology for dark matter detection. The research supported by Xenia and LUX-ZEPLIN has the potential to unlock some of the universe's most profound mysteries, advancing our understanding of the fundamental building blocks of existence.This project highlights how high-performance polymers play a vital role in the most advanced scientific endeavors. From their unique material properties to their versatility in fabrication, polymers like PEEK are integral to cutting-edge innovations across a range of fields.
A Commitment to Innovation
At High Performance Polymer, we thrive on challenges that require technical expertise and innovative solutions. Supporting projects like Xenia and LUX-ZEPLIN reflects our commitment to enabling breakthroughs in science and technology. Whether it's supplying polymers for space exploration, medical devices, or experimental physics, we are dedicated to advancing the limits of what’s possible.If your project requires precision-engineered polymer components or fasteners, we are here to help. Let us bring your vision to life with materials and solutions that meet the highest standards of performance and reliability.