Development of /sup 3/He MSGC for neutron scattering experiment

Microstrip gas chambers (MSGCs) have suffered from discharges due to surface streamers. We have recently proposed a new kind of MSGC that utilizes intermediate electrodes between the anode and the cathode. This new multigrid-type MSGC (M-MSGC) realizes high-gain and high-counting-rate capability. We have also proposed a new signal readout method to obtain induced signals on the back plane. Floating pads are placed close to the cathode strip on the front surface of an M-MSGC, and induced charges are read out via pads. We are now applying this technique to the neutron scattering experiment. A /sup 3/He M-MSGC is being developed, and test measurements have been performed.