From GEM Detectors to Licences and Start-Ups An example of KT @ CERN Dr. Tim Tsarfati

GEM detector technology basics The GEM (Gaseous Electron Multiplier) is a thin metal-coated polymer (Kapton) foil pierced by a high density of holes (50-100/mm2). Introduced in the 90’s to achieve better resolution, timing and simplicity. Many collaborations, patents, R&D and commercial licences, some direct sales by CERN, spin-offs on eg. medical devices ions 50 µm 70 µm 140 µm

TGEM technology basics THGEM Standard GEM 1 mm 105 gain in single-TGEM Thick-GEMs (TGEMs) were introduced later in the last decade as evolution of GEMs towards a simpler and more robust detector 103-104 gain in single GEM V. Peskov et al., Nucl. Instrum. Methods A576(2007), 362 Resistive TGEMs (RETGEM) have resistive instead of metallic electrodes, providing better protection against sparks 100 mm V. Peskov et al., Nucl. Instrum. Methods A478(2002), 377

KT fund project on GEM-based detectors for safety and environmental protection KT fund supports developments beyond HEP applications Resistive Thick-GEM technology attractive in environmental and safety field, given the intrinsic robustness, simplicity of assembly and good performance in harsh environment R&D project supported by the KT fund in 2012: Flame and smoke detection with a sealed device; higher sensitivity than existing commercial devices is achieved using UV sensitive photoconverters (CsI, Ethyl-ferrocene) Rn detection using a device open to air; RETGEM can be operated stably in ambient air, thus exploited to detect alpha’s from Rn decay and implement monitoring network for systematic large scale studies of Rn increase in atmosphere as earthquake precursor

Start-Up; What and Why?

A company formed around a product or service developed at a parent organisation The company may take assets, employees, intellectual property, technology, existing products from the parent organisation.

Why create GEM spin-offs? Technology with a wide range of applications in various fields Enthusiastic community Market need; creating, installing & operating GEMs requires specialist knowledge Potential for production and service- based companies

The GEM Radon Detectors Story 2013 Spin-Off potential verified during KT fund project Inventor interested to be involved, while remaining CERN staff Search for management team NTNU entrepreneurship programme Spin-Off & market appraisals favourable Team members at CERN on several occasions 2014 Early concept drawing of instrument

The Process – Licensing & Spin-Off Establish application potential of technology Confirm support of lead inventor Technology & Inventor Assessment Identify company management team Understand development needs & funding Management & Resource Identification Seek funding & support Conduct any required development Set-up preparation Register company Sign spin-off agreement with CERN Form Spin-Off Company Many R&D and commercial licences Regular sale of foils Support of CERN KT group Time

CERN KT Support 1-year, paid ‘pre-spin-off’ contract at CERN, with regular stays at CERN facilities Assistance with technical, administrative and market research related matters Promotion and ‘marketing’ of the spin-off at workshops, seminars & conferences

We actively seek to support spin-offs from CERN technologies/people Our door is always open to discuss your ideas – spread the word!