1. |
- Warr, N., et al.
(author)
-
The Miniball spectrometer
- 2013
-
In: European Physical Journal A. Hadrons and Nuclei. - : Springer Science and Business Media LLC. - 1434-6001. ; 49:3
-
Journal article (peer-reviewed)abstract
- The Miniball germanium detector array has been operational at the REX (Radioactive ion beam EXperiment) post accelerator at the Isotope Separator On-Line facility ISOLDE at CERN since 2001. During the last decade, a series of successful Coulomb excitation and transfer reaction studies have been performed with this array, utilizing the unique and high-quality radioactive ion beams which are available at ISOLDE. In this article, an overview is given of the technical details of the full Miniball setup, including a description of the.-ray and particle detectors, beam monitoring devices and methods to deal with beam contamination. The specific timing properties of the REX-ISOLDE facility are highlighted to indicate the sensitivity that can be achieved with the full Miniball setup. The article is finalized with a summary of some physics highlights at REX-ISOLDE and the utilization of the Miniball germanium detectors at other facilities.
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2. |
- Alcayne, V., et al.
(author)
-
A segmented total energy detector (sTED) for (n, gamma) cross section measurements at n_TOF EAR2
- 2023
-
In: 15TH INTERNATIONAL CONFERENCE ON NUCLEAR DATA FOR SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY, ND2022. - : EDP Sciences.
-
Conference paper (peer-reviewed)abstract
- The neutron time-of-flight facility n_TOF is characterised by its high instantaneous neutron intensity, high resolution and broad neutron energy spectra, specially conceived for neutron-induced reaction cross section measurements. Two Time-Of-Flight (TOR) experimental areas are available at the facility: experimental area 1 (EAR1), located at the end of the 185 m horizontal flight path from the spallation target, and experimental area 2 (EAR2), placed at 20 m from the target in the vertical direction. The neutron fluence in EAR2 is similar to 300 times more intense than in EARL in the relevant time-of-flight window. EAR2 was designed to carry out challenging cross-section measurements with low mass samples (approximately 1 mg), reactions with small cross-sections or/and highly radioactive samples. The high instantaneous fluence of EAR2 results in high counting rates that challenge the existing capture systems. Therefore, the sTED detector has been designed to mitigate these effects. In 2021, a dedicated campaign was done validating the performance of the detector up to at least 300 keV neutron energy. After this campaign, the detector has been used to perform various capture cross section measurements at n_TOF EAR2.
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3. |
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4. |
- Diriken, J., et al.
(author)
-
Coulomb excitation of Ga-73
- 2010
-
In: Physical Review C (Nuclear Physics). - 0556-2813. ; 82:6
-
Journal article (peer-reviewed)abstract
- The B(E2; I-i -> I-f) values for transitions in Ga-71(31)40 and Ga-73(31)42 were deduced from a Coulomb excitation experiment at the safe energy of 2.95 MeV/nucleon using post-accelerated beams of Ga-71,Ga-73 at the REX-ISOLDE on-line isotope mass separator facility. The emitted gamma rays were detected by the MINIBALL gamma-detector array, and B(E2; I-i -> I-f) values were obtained from the yields normalized to the known strength of the 2(+) -> 0(+) transition in the Sn-120 target. The comparison of these new results with the data of less neutron-rich gallium isotopes shows a shift of the E2 collectivity toward lower excitation energy when adding neutrons beyond N = 40. This supports conclusions from previous studies of the gallium isotopes, which indicated a structural change in this isotopic chain between N = 40 and 42. Combined with recent measurements from collinear laser spectroscopy showing a 1/2(-) spin and parity for the ground state, the extracted results revealed evidence for a 1/2(-), 3/2(-) doublet near the ground state in Ga-73(31)42 differing by at most 0.8 keV in energy.
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5. |
- Domingo-Pardo, C., et al.
(author)
-
Advances and new ideas for neutron-capture astrophysics experiments at CERN n_TOF
- 2023
-
In: European Physical Journal A. - : Springer. - 1434-6001 .- 1434-601X. ; 59:1
-
Journal article (peer-reviewed)abstract
- This article presents a few selected developments and future ideas related to the measurement of (n,γ) data of astrophysical interest at CERN n_TOF. The MC-aided analysis methodology for the use of low-efficiency radiation detectors in time-of-flight neutron-capture measurements is discussed, with particular emphasis on the systematic accuracy. Several recent instrumental advances are also presented, such as the development of total-energy detectors with γ-ray imaging capability for background suppression, and the development of an array of small-volume organic scintillators aimed at exploiting the high instantaneous neutron-flux of EAR2. Finally, astrophysics prospects related to the intermediate i neutron-capture process of nucleosynthesis are discussed in the context of the new NEAR activation area.
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6. |
- Dupont, E., et al.
(author)
-
Overview of the dissemination of n_TOF experimental data and resonance parameters
- 2023
-
In: 15TH INTERNATIONAL CONFERENCE ON NUCLEAR DATA FOR SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY, ND2022. - : EDP Sciences.
-
Conference paper (peer-reviewed)abstract
- The n_TOF neutron time-of-flight facility at CERN is used for nuclear data measurements. The n_TOF Collaboration works closely with the Nuclear Reaction Data Centres (NRDC) network to disseminate the experimental data through the international EXFOR library. In addition, the Collaboration helps integrate the results in the evaluated library projects. The present contribution describes the dissemination status of n_TOF results, their impact on evaluated libraries and ongoing efforts to provide n_TOF resonance parameters in ENDF-6 format for further use by evaluation projects.
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7. |
- Garcia-Infantes, F., et al.
(author)
-
First high resolution measurement of neutron capture resonances in Yb-176 at the n_TOF CERN facility.
- 2023
-
In: 15TH INTERNATIONAL CONFERENCE ON NUCLEAR DATA FOR SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY, ND2022. - : EDP Sciences.
-
Conference paper (peer-reviewed)abstract
- Several international agencies recommend the study of new routes and new facilities for producing radioisotopes with application to nuclear medicine. Lu-177 is a versatile radioisotope used for therapy and diagnosis (theranostics) of cancer with good success in neuroendocrine tumours that is being studied to be applied to a wider range of tumours. Lu-177 is produced in few nuclear reactors mainly by the neutron capture on Lu-176. However, it could be produced at high -intensity accelerator-based neutron facilities. The energy of the neutrons in accelerator-based neutron facilities is higher than in thermal reactors. Thus, experimental data on the Yb-176(n,(sic)) cross-section in the eV and keV region are mandatory to calculate accurately the production of Yb-177, which beta decays to 177Lu. At present, there are not experimental data available from thermal to 3 keV of the Yb-176(n,(sic)) cross-section. In addition, there is no data in the resolved resonance region (RRR). This contribution shows the first results of the Yb-176 capture measurement performed at the n_TOF facility at CERN.
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8. |
- Lerendegui-Marco, J., et al.
(author)
-
New detection systems for an enhanced sensitivity in key stellar (n,γ) measurements
- 2023
-
In: EPJ Web of Conferences. - : EDP Sciences. - 2100-014X. ; 279
-
Journal article (peer-reviewed)abstract
- Neutron capture cross-section measurements are fundamental in the study of astrophysical phenomena, such as the slow neutron capture (s-) process of nucleosynthesis operating in red-giant and massive stars. However, neutron capture measurements via the time-of-flight (TOF) technique on key s-process nuclei are often challenging. Difficulties arise from the limited mass (∼mg) available and the high sample-related background in the case of the unstable s-process branching points. Measurements on neutron magic nuclei, that act as s-process bottlenecks, are affected by low (n,γ) cross sections and a dominant neutron scattering background. Overcoming these experimental challenges requires the combination of facilities with high instantaneous flux, such as n_TOFEAR2, with detection systems with an enhanced detection sensitivity and high counting rate capabilities. This contribution reviews some of the latest detector developments in detection systems for (n,γ) measurements at n_TOF, such as i-TED, an innovative detection system which exploits the Compton imaging technique to reduce the dominant neutron scattering background and s-TED, a highly segmented total energy detector intended for high flux facilities. The discussion will be illustrated with results of the first measurement of key the s-process branching-point reaction 79Se(n,γ).
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9. |
- Mucciola, R., et al.
(author)
-
Neutron capture and total cross-section measurements on Mo-94'95'96 at n_TOF and GELINA
- 2023
-
In: 15th International Conference on Nuclear Data for Science and Technology, ND2022. - : EDP Sciences.
-
Conference paper (peer-reviewed)abstract
- Capture and total cross section measurements for 94'95'96 MO have been performed at the neutron time -of-flight facilities, n_TOF at CERN and GELINA at JRC-Geel. The measurements were performed using isotopically enriched samples with an enrichment above 95% for each of the (94'95'96)M0 isotopes. The capture measurements were performed at n_TOF using C6D6 detectors and a new sTED detector. The transmission measurements were performed at a 10 m station of GELINA using a Li-6 glass neutron detector. Preliminary results of these measurements are presented.
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10. |
- Pavon-Rodriguez, J. A., et al.
(author)
-
Characterisation of the n_TOF 20 m beam line at CERN with the new spallation target
- 2023
-
In: 15TH INTERNATIONAL CONFERENCE ON NUCLEAR DATA FOR SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY, ND2022. - : EDP Sciences.
-
Conference paper (peer-reviewed)abstract
- The n_TOF facility hosts CERN's pulsed neutron source, comprising two beam lines of different flight paths and one activation station. It is based on a proton beam delivered by the PS accelerator impinging on a lead spallation target. During Long Shutdown 2 (LS2) at CERN (2019-2021), a major upgrade of the spallation target was carried out in order to optimize the performances of the neutron beam. Therefore, the characteristics of n_TOF two experimental areas were investigated in detail. In this work, the focus is on the second experimental area (EAR2), located 20 m above the spallation target. Preliminary results of the neutron energy distribution and beam line energy resolution are presented, compared to previous experimental campaigns and Monte Carlo simulations with the FLUKA code. Moreover, preliminary results of the spatial beam profile measurements are shown.
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11. |
- Stamati, M. E., et al.
(author)
-
The n_TOF NEAR Station Commissioning and first physics case
- 2023
-
In: 15TH INTERNATIONAL CONFERENCE ON NUCLEAR DATA FOR SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY, ND2022. - : EDP Sciences.
-
Conference paper (peer-reviewed)abstract
- The NEAR Station is a new experimental area developed at the n_TOF Facility at CERN. The activation station of NEAR underwent a characterization of the beam following the installation of the new n_TOF Spallation Target. The commissioning of the neutron beam comprises a set of simulations made with the FLUKA code and experimental verification. The experimental determination of the neutron spectrum was made using activation techniques with three separate set-ups. Two set-ups were based on the Multi-foil Activation technique (MAM-1 and MAM-2), and the third set-up relied on the process of neutron moderation and activation of a single material (ANTILoPE). The three set-ups are presented. Also the present plans and future perspectives of the activation station of NEAR are discussed.
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12. |
- Stefanescu, I, et al.
(author)
-
Interplay between single-particle and collective effects in the odd-A Cu isotopes beyond N=40
- 2008
-
In: Physical Review Letters. - 1079-7114. ; 100:11
-
Journal article (peer-reviewed)abstract
- Collective properties of the low-lying levels in the odd-A Cu67-73 were investigated by Coulomb excitation with radioactive beams. The beams were produced at ISOLDE and postaccelerated by REX-ISOLDE up to 2.99 MeV/u. In Cu-67,Cu-69, low-lying 1/2(-), 5/2(-), and 7/2(-) states were populated. In Cu-71,Cu-73, besides the known transitions deexciting the single-particle-like 5/2(-) and core-coupled 7/2(-) levels, gamma rays of 454 and 135 keV, respectively, were observed for the first time. Based on a reanalysis of beta-decay work and comparison with the systematics, a spin 1/2(-) is suggested for these excited states. Three B(E2) values were determined in each of the four isotopes. The results indicate a significant change in the structure of the odd-A Cu isotopes beyond N=40 where single-particle-like and collective levels are suggested to coexist at very low excitation energies.
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13. |
- Wrzosek-Lipska, K., et al.
(author)
-
Electromagnetic properties of low-lying states in neutron-deficient Hg isotopes : Coulomb excitation of 182Hg, 184Hg, 186Hg and 188Hg
- 2019
-
In: European Physical Journal A. - : Springer Science and Business Media LLC. - 1434-6001 .- 1434-601X. ; 55:8
-
Journal article (peer-reviewed)abstract
- The neutron-deficient mercury isotopes serve as a classical example of shape coexistence, whereby at low energy near-degenerate nuclear states characterized by different shapes appear. The electromagnetic structure of even-mass 182-188 Hg isotopes was studied using safe-energy Coulomb excitation of neutron-deficient mercury beams delivered by the REX-ISOLDE facility at CERN. The population of 01,2+, 21,2+ and 41+ states was observed in all nuclei under study. Reduced E2 matrix elements coupling populated yrast and non-yrast states were extracted, including their relative signs. These are a sensitive probe of shape coexistence and may be used to validate nuclear models. The experimental results are discussed in terms of mixing of two different configurations and are compared with three different model calculations: the Beyond Mean Field model, the Interacting Boson Model with configuration mixing and the General Bohr Hamiltonian. Partial agreement with experiment was observed, hinting to missing ingredients in the theoretical descriptions.
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14. |
- Alcayne, V., et al.
(author)
-
A Segmented Total Energy Detector (sTED) optimized for (n,ϒ) cross-section measurements at n_TOF EAR2
- 2024
-
In: Radiation Physics and Chemistry. - : Elsevier. - 0969-806X .- 1879-0895. ; 217
-
Journal article (peer-reviewed)abstract
- The neutron time-of-flight facility n_TOF at CERN is a spallation source dedicated to measurements of neutroninduced reaction cross-sections of interest in nuclear technologies, astrophysics, and other applications. Since 2014, Experimental ARea 2 (EAR2) is operational and delivers a neutron fluence of similar to 4 center dot 10(7) neutrons per nominal proton pulse, which is similar to 50 times higher than the one of Experimental ARea 1 (EAR1) of similar to 8 center dot 10(5) neutrons per pulse. The high neutron flux at EAR2 results in high counting rates in the detectors that challenged the previously existing capture detection systems. For this reason, a Segmented Total Energy Detector (sTED) has been developed to overcome the limitations in the detector's response, by reducing the active volume per module and by using a photo-multiplier (PMT) optimized for high counting rates. This paper presents the main characteristics of the sTED, including energy and time resolution, response to gamma-rays, and provides as well details of the use of the Pulse Height Weighting Technique (PHWT) with this detector. The sTED has been validated to perform neutron-capture cross-section measurements in EAR2 in the neutron energy range from thermal up to at least 400 keV. The detector has already been successfully used in several measurements at n_TOF EAR2.
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15. |
- Balibrea-Correa, J., et al.
(author)
-
First measurement of the 94Nb(n,γ) cross section at the CERN n_TOF facility
- 2023
-
In: EPJ Web of Conferences. - : EDP Sciences. - 2100-014X. ; 279
-
Journal article (peer-reviewed)abstract
- One of the crucial ingredients for the improvement of stellar models is the accurate knowledge of neutron capture cross-sections for the different isotopes involved in the s-,r- and i- processes. These measurements can shed light on existing discrepancies between observed and predicted isotopic abundances and help to constrain the physical conditions where these reactions take place along different stages of stellar evolution.In the particular case of the radioactive 94Nb, the 94Nb(n,γ) cross-section could play a role in the determination of the s-process production of 94Mo in AGB stars, which presently cannot be reproduced by state-of-the-art stellar models. There are no previous 94Nb(n,γ) experimental data for the resolved and unresolved resonance regions mainly due to the difficulties in producing highquality samples and also due to limitations in conventional detection systems commonly used in time-of-flight experiments.Motivated by this situation, a first measurement of the 94Nb(n,γ) reaction was carried out at CERN n_TOF, thereby exploiting the high luminosity of the EAR2 area in combination with a new detection system of small-volume C6D6-detectors and a high quality 94Nb-sample. The latter was based on hyper-pure 93Nb material activated at the high-flux reactor of ILL-Grenoble. An innovative ring-configuration detection system in close geometry around the capture sample allowed us to significantly enhance the signal-to-background ratio. This set-up was supplemented with two conventional C6D6-detectors and a highresolution LaCl3(Ce)-detector, which will be employed for addressing reliably systematic effects and uncertainties.At the current status of the data analysis, 18 resonance in 94Nb+n have been observed for the first time in the neutron energy range from thermal up to 10 keV.
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16. |
- Bauer, C., et al.
(author)
-
Prolate shape of Ba-140 from a first combined Doppler-shift and Coulomb-excitation measurement at the REX-ISOLDE facility
- 2012
-
In: Physical Review C (Nuclear Physics). - 0556-2813. ; 86:3
-
Journal article (peer-reviewed)abstract
- Background: Quadrupole moments of excited nuclear states are important observables for geometrically interpreting nuclear structure in terms of deformed shapes, although data are scarce and sometimes ambiguous, in particular, in neutron-rich nuclides. Purpose: A measurement was performed for determining the spectroscopic quadrupole moment of the 2(1)(+) state of Ba-140 in order to clarify the character of quadrupole deformation (prolate or oblate) of the state in its yrast sequence of levels. Method: We have utilized a new combined technique of lifetime measurement at REX-ISOLDE and MINIBALL using the Doppler-shift attenuation method (DSAM) and a reorientation analysis of Coulomb-excitation yields. Results: On the basis of the new lifetime of tau(2(1)(+)) = 10.4(-0.8)(+2.2) ps the electric quadrupole moment was determined to be Q(2(1)(+)) = -0.52(34) eb, indicating a predominant prolate deformation. Conclusions: This finding is in agreement with beyond-mean-field calculations using the Gogny D1S force and with results from the Monte Carlo shell-model approach.
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17. |
- Bree, N, et al.
(author)
-
Shape Coexistence in the Neutron-Deficient Even-Even Hg182-188 Isotopes Studied via Coulomb Excitation.
- 2014
-
In: Physical Review Letters. - 1079-7114. ; 112:16
-
Journal article (peer-reviewed)abstract
- Coulomb-excitation experiments to study electromagnetic properties of radioactive even-even Hg isotopes were performed with 2.85 MeV/nucleon mercury beams from REX-ISOLDE. Magnitudes and relative signs of the reduced E2 matrix elements that couple the ground state and low-lying excited states in Hg182-188 were extracted. Information on the deformation of the ground and the first excited 0+ states was deduced using the quadrupole sum rules approach. Results show that the ground state is slightly deformed and of oblate nature, while a larger deformation for the excited 0+ state was noted in Hg182,184. The results are compared to beyond mean field and interacting-boson based models and interpreted within a two-state mixing model. Partial agreement with the model calculations was obtained. The presence of two different structures in the light even-mass mercury isotopes that coexist at low excitation energy is firmly established.
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18. |
- Domingo-Pardo, C., et al.
(author)
-
Compton imaging for enhanced sensitivity (n,gamma) cross section TOF experiments : Status and prospects
- 2023
-
In: 15TH INTERNATIONAL CONFERENCE ON NUCLEAR DATA FOR SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY, ND2022. - : EDP Sciences.
-
Conference paper (peer-reviewed)abstract
- Radiative neutron-capture cross sections are of pivotal importance in many fields such as nucle-osynthesis studies or innovative reactor technologies. A large number of isotopes have been measured with high accuracy, but there are still a large number of relevant isotopes whose cross sections could not be experimentally determined yet, at least with sufficient accuracy and completeness, owing to limitations in detection techniques, sample production methods or in the facilities themselves. In the context of the HYMNS (High-sensitivitY Measurements of key stellar Nucleo-Synthesis reactions) project over the last six years we have developed a novel detection technique aimed at background suppression in radiative neutron-capture time-of-flight measurements. This new technique utilizes a complex detection set-up based on position-sensitive radiation-detectors deployed in a Compton-camera array configuration. The latter enables to implement gamma-ray imaging techniques, which help to disentangle true capture events arising from the sample under study and contaminant background events from the surroundings. A summary on the main developments is given in this contribution together with an update on recent experiments at CERN n_TOF and an outlook on future steps.
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19. |
- Domingo-Pardo, C., et al.
(author)
-
The neutron time-of-flight facility n_TOF at CERN Recent facility upgrades and detector developments
- 2023
-
In: Journal of Physics, Conference Series. - : Institute of Physics (IOP). - 1742-6588 .- 1742-6596. ; 2586
-
Journal article (peer-reviewed)abstract
- Based on an idea by Carlo Rubbia, the n_TOF facility at CERN has been operating for over 20 years. It is a neutron spallation source, driven by the 20 GeV/c proton beam from the CERN PS accelerator. Neutrons in a very wide energy range (from GeV, down to sub-eV kinetic energy) are generated by a massive Lead spallation target feeding two experimental areas. EAR1, horizonal with respect to the proton beam direction is set at 185 meters from the spallation target. EAR2, on the vertical line from the spallation source, is placed at 20 m. Neutron energies for experiments are selected by the time-of-flight technique (hence the name n_TOF), while the long flight paths ensure a very good energy resolution. Over one hundred experiments have been performed by the n_TOF Collaboration at CERN, with applications ranging from nuclear astrophysics (synthesis of the heavy elements in stars, big bang nucleosynthesis, nuclear cosmo-chronology), to advanced nuclear technologies (nuclear data for applications, nuclear safety), as well as for basic nuclear science (reaction mechanisms, structure and decay of highly excited compound states). During the planned shutdown of the CERN accelerator complex between 2019 and 2021, the facility went through a substantial upgrade with a new target-moderator assembly, refurbishing of the neutron beam lines and experimental areas. An additional measuring and irradiation station (the NEAR Station) has been envisaged and its capabilities for performing material test studies and new physics opportunities are presently explored. An overview of the facility and of the activities performed at CERN is presented in this contribution, with a particular emphasis on the most relevant experiments for nuclear astrophysics.
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20. |
- Kröll, T., et al.
(author)
-
Transfer Reactions on Neutron-rich Nuclei at REX-ISOLDE
- 2009
-
In: AIP Conference Proceedings. - 1551-7616 .- 0094-243X. ; 1165, s. 363-368 461
-
Conference paper (peer-reviewed)abstract
- We report on one- and two-neutron transfer reactions to study the single-particle properties of nuclei at the border of the "island of inversion". The (d,p)- and (t,p)-reactions in inverse kinematics on the neutron-rich isotope Mg-30, delivered as radioactive beam by the REX-ISOLDE facility, have been investigated. The outgoing protons have been detected and identified by a newly built array of Si detectors. The gamma-decay of excited states has been detected in coincidence by the MINIBALL array. First results for Mg-31 and from the search for the second, spherical, 0(+) state in Mg-32 are presented.
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21. |
- Lerendegui-Marco, J., et al.
(author)
-
New perspectives for neutron capture measurements in the upgraded CERN-n_TOF Facility
- 2023
-
In: 15th International Conference on Nuclear Data for Science and Technology, ND2022. - : EDP Sciences.
-
Conference paper (peer-reviewed)abstract
- The n_TOF facility has just undergone in 2021 a major upgrade with the installation of its third generation spallation target that has been designed to optimize the performance of the two n_TOF time-of-flight lines. This contribution describes the key features and limitations for capture measurements in the two beam lines prior to the target upgrade and presents first results of (n,gamma) measurements carried out as part of the commissioning of the upgraded facility. In particular, the energy resolution, a key factor for both increasing the signal-to background ratio and obtaining accurate resonance parameters, has been clearly improved for the 20 m long vertical beam-line with the new target design while keeping the remarkably high resolution of the long beamline n_TOF-EAR1. The improvements in the n_TOF neutron beam-lines need to be accompanied by improvements in the instrumentation. A review is given on recent detector R&D projects aimed at tackling the existing challenges and further improving the capabilities of this facility.
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22. |
- Massimi, C., et al.
(author)
-
Neutron-induced cross section measurements
- 2023
-
In: EPJ Web of Conferences. - : EDP Sciences. - 2100-014X. ; 279
-
Journal article (peer-reviewed)abstract
- Neutron-induced cross sections represent the main nuclear input to models of stellar and Big-Bang nucleosynthesis. While (n,γ) reactions are relevant for the formation of elements heavier than iron, (n,p) and (n,α) reactions can play an important role in specific cases. The time-of-flight method is routinely used at n_TOF to experimentally determine the cross section data. In addition, recent upgrades of the facility will allow the use of activation techniques as well, possibly opening the way to a systematic study of neutron interaction with radioactive isotopes. In the last 20 years n_TOF has provided a large amount of experimental data for Nuclear Astrophysics. Our plan is to carry on challenging measurements and produce nuclear data in the next decades as well.
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23. |
- Mastromarco, M., et al.
(author)
-
Measurement of the Gd-160(n, gamma) cross section at n_TOF and its medical implications
- 2023
-
In: 15TH INTERNATIONAL CONFERENCE ON NUCLEAR DATA FOR SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY, ND2022. - : EDP Sciences.
-
Conference paper (peer-reviewed)abstract
- Neutron-capture reactions on gadolinium isotopes play an important role in several fields of physics, in particular in nuclear Astrophysics for the understanding of the nucleosynthesis of heavy elements (beyond iron) in stars via the s- and r-processes [1] and in nuclear technology. Another important application of gadolinium is linked to the production of terbium, that offers a set of clinically interesting isotopes for theranostics, characterized by complementary physical decay characteristics. In particular, the low -energy beta(-) emitter terbium-161 is very similar to lutetium-177 in terms of half-life (6.89 d), beta(-) - energy and chemical properties. Being a significant emitter of conversion/Auger electrons, greater therapeutic effect can therefore be expected in comparison to Lu-177 [2, 3]. For this reason, in the last decade, the study of the neutron capture reaction Gd-160(n,,gamma)(161) Gd and the subsequent beta(-) - decay in terbium-161 is getting particular attention. As the nuclear data on the Gd-160 neutron capture reaction are quite scarce and inconsistent, a new measurement of the capture cross section of Gd-160 at the CERN neutron Time -Of-Flight facilty was performed in order to provide high resolution, high -accuracy data on this important reaction, in the energy range from thermal to hundreds of keV. In this contribution, the preliminary results of the n_TOF measurement are presented.
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24. |
- Patronis, N., et al.
(author)
-
Status report of the n_TOF facility after the 2nd CERN long shutdown period
- 2023
-
In: EPJ TECHNIQUES AND INSTRUMENTATION. - : Springer Nature. - 2195-7045. ; 10
-
Journal article (peer-reviewed)abstract
- During the second long shutdown period of the CERN accelerator complex (LS2, 2019-2021), several upgrade activities took place at the n_TOF facility. The most important have been the replacement of the spallation target with a next generation nitrogen-cooled lead target. Additionally, a new experimental area, at a very short distance from the target assembly (the NEAR Station) was established. In this paper, the core commissioning actions of the new installations are described. The improvement in the n_TOF infrastructure was accompanied by several detector development projects. All these upgrade actions are discussed, focusing mostly on the future perspectives of the n_TOF facility. Furthermore, some indicative current and future measurements are briefly reported.
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25. |
- Tagliente, G., et al.
(author)
-
The n_TOF facility at CERN
- 2024
-
In: 16<sup>th</sup> Varenna Conference on Nuclear Reaction Mechanisms (NRM2023). - : EDP Sciences. - 9782759891245
-
Conference paper (peer-reviewed)abstract
- The neutron Time-of-Flight facility (n_TOF) is an innovative facility operative since 2001 at CERN, with three experimental areas. In this paper the n_TOF facility will be described, together with the upgrade of the facility during the Long Shutdown 2 at CERN. The main features of the detectors used for capture fission cross section measurements will be presented with perspectives for the future measurements.
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26. |
- Colonna, N., et al.
(author)
-
The fission experimental programme at the CERN n_TOF facility : status and perspectives
- 2020
-
In: European Physical Journal A. - : Springer Science and Business Media LLC. - 1434-6001 .- 1434-601X. ; 56:2
-
Research review (peer-reviewed)abstract
- Neutron-induced fission reactions play a crucial role in a variety of fields of fundamental and applied nuclear science. In basic nuclear physics they provide important information on properties of nuclear matter, while in nuclear technology they are at the basis of present and future reactor designs. Finally, there is a renewed interest in fission reactions in nuclear astrophysics due to the multi-messenger observation of neutron star mergers and the important role played by fission recycling in r-process nucleosynthesis. Although studied for several decades, many fundamental questions still remain on fission reactions, while modern applications and the development of more reliable nuclear models require high-accuracy and consistent experimental data on fission cross sections and other fission observables. To address these needs, an extensive fission research programme has been carried out at the n_TOF neutron time-of-flight facility at CERN during the last 18 years, taking advantage of the high energy resolution, high luminosity and wide energy range of the neutron beam, as well as of the detection and data acquisition systems designed for this purpose. While long-lived isotopes are studied on the 185 m long flight-path, the recent construction of a second experimental area at a distance of about 19 m has opened the way to challenging measurements of short-lived actinides. This article provides an overview of the n_TOF experimental programme on neutron-induced fission reactions along with the main characteristics of the facility, the various detection systems and data analysis techniques used. The most important results on several major and minor actinides obtained so far and the future perspectives of fission measurements at n_TOF are presented and discussed.
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27. |
- Diakaki, M., et al.
(author)
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Towards the high-accuracy determination of the 238U fission cross section at the threshold region at CERN - n_TOF
- 2016
-
In: EPJ Web of Conferences. - : EDP Sciences. - 2100-014X.
-
Conference paper (peer-reviewed)abstract
- The U-238 fission cross section is an international standard beyond 2 MeV where the fission plateau starts. However, due to its importance in fission reactors, this cross-section should be very accurately known also in the threshold region below 2 MeV. The U-238 fission cross section has been measured relative to the U-235 fission cross section at CERN - n_TOF with different detection systems. These datasets have been collected and suitably combined to increase the counting statistics in the threshold region from about 300 keV up to 3 MeV. The results are compared with other experimental data, evaluated libraries, and the IAEA standards.
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28. |
- Kröll, Th, et al.
(author)
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Quadrupole Collectivity of neutron-rich nuclei around 132Sn
- 2008
-
In: Frontiers in Nuclear Structure, Astrophysics, and Reactions, FINUSTAR 2007. - : AIP. - 9780735405325 ; 1012, s. 296-299
-
Conference paper (peer-reviewed)abstract
- We report on the "safe" Coulomb excitation of neutron-rich Cd, Xe, and Ba isotopes in the vicinity of the doubly-magic nucleus 132Sn. The radioactive nuclei have been produced by ISOLDE at CERN and postaccelerated by the REX-ISOLDE facility. The γ-decay of excited states has been detected by the MINIBALL array. The presented preliminary results for the B(E2) values are consistent with expectations from phenomenological systematics and will be compared with theoretical calculations.
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29. |
- Paradela, C., et al.
(author)
-
High-accuracy determination of the 238U/235U fission cross section ratio up to ~1 GeV at n_TOF at CERN
- 2015
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In: Physical Review C. Nuclear Physics. - 0556-2813 .- 1089-490X. ; 91, s. 024602-
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Journal article (peer-reviewed)abstract
- The U238 to U235 fission cross section ratio has been determined at n_TOF up to ≈1 GeV, with two different detection systems, in different geometrical configurations. A total of four datasets has been collected and compared. They are all consistent to each other within the relative systematic uncertainty of 3–4%. The data collected at n_TOF have been suitably combined to yield a unique fission cross section ratio as a function of neutron energy. The result confirms current evaluations up to 200 MeV. Good agreement is also observed with theoretical calculations based on the INCL++/Gemini++ combination up to the highest measured energy. The n_TOF results may help solve a long-standing discrepancy between the two most important experimental datasets available so far above 20 MeV, while extending the neutron energy range for the first time up to ≈1 GeV.
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30. |
- Petts, A., et al.
(author)
-
Lifetime measurements and coulomb excitation of light Hg nuclei
- 2009
-
In: Capture Gamma-Ray Spectroscopy and Related Topics. - : American Institute of Physics (AIP). - 9780735406230 ; , s. 414-418
-
Conference paper (peer-reviewed)abstract
- Two complementary experimental programs have taken place to investigate the origin and evolution of shape coexistence in the light mercury region. Recoil Distance Doppler-shift measurements were performed at the University of Jyväskylä utilizing the Köln plunger device in conjunction with the JUROGAM + RITU + GREAT setup. In addition, Coulomb excitation measurements of 184,186,188Hg were performed at REX-ISOLDE using the MINIBALL Ge-detector array. The results of the lifetime measurements of the yrast states up to Iπ = 10+ in 182Hg are reported. Preliminary analysis of the Coulomb excitation data is also discussed.
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31. |
- Maragkos, F., et al.
(author)
-
Differential cross-section measurements and R-Matrix calculations for proton elastic scattering on natMg in the energy range Ep,lab=2.70-4.25 MeV, suitable for EBS
- 2023
-
In: Nuclear Instruments and Methods in Physics Research Section B. - : Elsevier. - 0168-583X .- 1872-9584. ; 536, s. 45-54
-
Journal article (peer-reviewed)abstract
- In the current work the first coherent set of differential cross section values for the natMg(p,p0)natMg elastic scattering covering the Ep,lab = 2700-4250 keV energy range is presented for 6 backscattering detection angles (120 degrees, 130 degrees, 140 degrees, 150 degrees, 160 degrees and 170 degrees). R-Matrix calculations were implemented using the AZURE 2.0 code [1] in an attempt to reproduce the obtained experimental data, whilst taking into account the 24Mg(p,p1)24Mg reaction channel. Both results are suitable for EBS and other IBA applications and, furthermore, they form a basis for a future expansion of the current SigmaCalc [2] evaluation, once more experimental data become available. The measurements were performed in the 5.5 MV TN11 HV Tandem Accelerator and the high precision goniometer of N.C.S.R. 'Demokritos', Athens, Greece. The experimental and data analysis procedures are presented in detail, along with the process behind the implementation of the R-Matrix calculations.
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32. |
- Georgali, E., et al.
(author)
-
Cross-section measurements of the Dy-156(n, 2n)Dy-155 reaction at neutron energies higher than 17 MeV
- 2021
-
In: Physical Review C. - : American Physical Society. - 2469-9985 .- 2469-9993. ; 104:6
-
Journal article (peer-reviewed)abstract
- In the present work the cross section of the 156Dy (n, 2n) 155Dy reaction (Eth = 9.51 MeV) was measured at neutron beam energies above 17 MeV: 17.1, 18.1, and 19.0 MeV. The irradiations were performed at the 5.5-MV tandem accelerator of the Institute of Nuclear and Particle Physics at N.C.S.R. "Demokritos", where quasimonoenergetic neutron beams were produced via the 3H (d, n) 4He reaction. The cross-section measurements were performed by means of the activation technique relative to the 27Al (n, alpha) 24Na reference reaction. Within the present work the experimental study is framed by theoretical calculations performed via the TALYS code (version 1.95).
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33. |
- Georgali, E., et al.
(author)
-
Experimental study of the 165Ho(n, 2n) reaction : Cross section measurements for the population of the 164Ho ground state and isomeric state from the threshold up to 20 MeV
- 2020
-
In: Physical Review C. Nuclear Physics. - 0556-2813 .- 1089-490X. ; 102:3
-
Journal article (peer-reviewed)abstract
- In the present work the 165Ho(n,2n) reaction was studied experimentally and theoretically for the population of the ground state (Jπ=1+) of the 164Ho product nucleus, as well as for the population of its isomeric state (Eex=139.8 keV, Jπ=6−). The cross sections of both the ground and isomeric state channels were measured at energies near the reaction threshold (Eth=8.04 MeV), at 10.1, 10.4, and 10.7 MeV, as well as at energies higher than 17 MeV, at 17.1, 18.1, 19.0, and 19.6 MeV. The adopted method was the activation technique relative to the 197Au(n,2n) 196Au and 27Al(n,α)24Na reference reactions. The quasi-monoenergetic neutron beams for the near threshold energies were produced via the 2H(d,n)3He reaction, while for the neutron beams above 17 MeV the 3H(d,n)4He reaction was utilized. In both cases the deuteron beams were delivered by the 5.5 MV Tandem Van de Graaff accelerator of the Institute of Nuclear and Particle Physics at N.C.S.R. “Demokritos”. Additional to the experimental study, calculations were performed using the talys code (v. 1.9). The experimental data of the present work along with the previous measurements were compared with the talys results so as to investigate the reproduction of the experimental data for the different level density models of the code.
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34. |
- Georgali, E., et al.
(author)
-
Using GEANT4 Monte Carlo simulations to resolve low energy γ-ray spectra : The study of 164Hog+m decay using a broad energy HPGe detector
- 2021
-
In: Nuclear Instruments and Methods in Physics Research Section A. - : Elsevier. - 0168-9002 .- 1872-9576. ; 985
-
Journal article (peer-reviewed)abstract
- Within the present work a peak analysis and unfolding method for low energy γ-ray spectroscopy is presented. This method can be used to facilitate the determination of the peak integral of a photopeak, when Ge X-ray escape peaks contaminate the latter and in parallel the source activity and the emission rate of the recorded photons which produce the escape peaks are unknown. It is based on extensive Monte Carlo simulations of the spectra by taking the full advantage of power and accuracy provided by the GEANT4 simulation toolkit.
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35. |
- Kalamara, A., et al.
(author)
-
Determination of the Ir-193(n, 2n) reaction cross section and correction methodology for the Ir-191(n, gamma) contamination
- 2019
-
In: European Physical Journal A. - : SPRINGER. - 1434-6001 .- 1434-601X. ; 55:10
-
Journal article (peer-reviewed)abstract
- The cross section of the Ir-193(n, 2n)Ir-192 reaction has been determined by means of the activation technique, relative to the Al-27(n, alpha) and Au-197(n, 2n) reference reactions cross sections, at neutron beam energies ranging from 10 to 21 MeV. The quasi-monoenergetic neutron beams were produced at the 5.5 MV Tandem T11/25 Accelerator Laboratory of NCSR "Demokritos" via the H-2(d, n) and H-3(d, n) reactions. The induced gamma-ray activity of the irradiated target and reference foils was measured with high resolution HPGe detectors. In order to correct for the contribution of the Ir-191(n, gamma)Ir-192 reaction, which is open to low energy parasitic neutrons, a recently developed analysis method was implemented and it is presented in great detail. Furthermore, cross section theoretical calculations were carried out using the EMPIRE and TALYS codes over a wide energy range.
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36. |
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37. |
- Reifarth, R., et al.
(author)
-
The [sup 14]C(n,gamma) cross section between 10 keV and 1 MeV
- 2008
-
In: Physical Review C (Nuclear Physics). ; 77:1, s. 015804-
-
Journal article (peer-reviewed)abstract
- The neutron capture cross section of 14C is of relevance for several nucleosynthesis scenarios such as inhomogeneous Big Bang models, neutron induced CNO cycles, and neutrino driven wind models for the r process. The 14C(n,gamma) reaction is also important for the validation of the Coulomb dissociation method, where the (n,gamma) cross section can be indirectly obtained via the time-reversed process. So far, the example of 14C is the only case with neutrons where both, direct measurement and indirect Coulomb dissociation, have been applied. Unfortunately, the interpretation is obscured by discrepancies between several experiments and theory. Therefore, we report on new direct measurements of the 14C(n,gamma) reaction with neutron energies ranging from 20 to 800 keV.
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