Measurement of the resonant d(mu)t molecular formation rate in solid HD

Area of Science:

• Nuclear Physics
• Atomic and Molecular Physics
• Quantum Chemistry

Background:

• Muon-catalyzed fusion is a potential pathway for clean energy generation.
• Understanding the molecular formation rates of muonic molecules is crucial for optimizing fusion yields.
• Solid hydrogen isotopes offer unique environments for studying these reactions.

Purpose of the Study:

• To experimentally measure the muon-catalyzed dt fusion rate in solid HD.
• To compare experimental results with theoretical predictions for muonic molecule formation.
• To refine theoretical models by constraining reaction rates.

Main Methods:

• Performed measurements of muon-catalyzed dt fusion (d(mu)t --> 4He + n + mu(-)) in solid HD targets.
• Utilized a Monte Carlo model tailored for the experiment to infer reaction rates.
• Analyzed fusion events using time-of-flight measurements.

Main Results:

• Obtained an average formation rate for the reaction (mu)t + HD --> [(d(mu)t)pee](*) that is consistent with theoretical predictions.
• The experimental formation rate was found to be 0.897 ± 0.046 (stat) ± 0.166 (syst) times the theoretical prediction.
• Constraints on reaction rates were successfully inferred.

Conclusions:

• Experimental measurements support the theoretical framework for muon-catalyzed fusion in solid HD.
• The study provides valuable data for refining models of muonic molecule formation and fusion rates.
• This research contributes to the understanding of fundamental processes in muon-catalyzed fusion.