The Resistive-WELL detector: a compact spark-protected single amplification-stage MPGD

In this work we present a novel idea for a compact spark-protected single amplification stage Micro-Pattern Gas Detector (MPGD). The detector amplification stage, realized with a structure very similar to a GEM foil, is embedded through a resistive layer in the readout board. A cathode electrode, defining the gas conversion/drift gap, completes the detector mechanics. The new structure, that we call Resistive-WELL (R-WELL), has some characteristics in common with previous MPGDs, such as C.A.T. and WELL, developed more than ten years ago. The prototype object of the present study has been realized in the 2009 by TE-MPE-EM Workshop at CERN. The new architecture is a very compact MPGD, robust against discharges and exhibiting a large gain ($\sim$6$\times$10$^3$), simple to construct and easy for engineering and then suitable for large area tracking devices as well as huge calorimetric apparata.