Fabrication, characterization and analysis of a prototype high purity germanium detector for $$^{76}$$Ge-based neutrinoless double beta decay experiments

Abstract Experiments searching for the neutrinoless double beta decay in $$^{76}$$ 76 Ge are currently achieving lowest background level and, connection with excellent energy resolution of germanium detectors, they exhibit best discovery potential decay. Expansion to a ton scale active target mass is presently considered – this case on-site production detectors may be an option. In paper we describe fabrication and characterization procedures prototype detector small p + contact, which enhances abilities pulse shape discrimination one most important tools reduction. Simulations shapes pulses from were carried out tuned, taking advantage fact that all parameters crystal, cryostat spectroscopic chain known. As result, analyses performed on simulated measured data agree very well. The worked method allows optimize geometry crystal terms analysis efficiency, before actual detectors.