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

2. 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

3. 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
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

4. 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

5. Start-Up; What and Why?

6. 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.

7. 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

8. 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

9. 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

10. 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

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