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High-Resolution Neutron Spectroscopy to Study Picosecond-Nanosecond Dynamics of Proteins and Hydration Water

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Published on: April 28, 2022

β-delayed neutron spectroscopy using trapped radioactive ions.

R M Yee¹, N D Scielzo, P F Bertone

¹Physical and Life Sciences Directorate, Lawrence Livermore National Laboratory, Livermore, California 94550, USA.

Physical Review Letters

|March 19, 2013

Summary

A new method uses trapped ions for beta-delayed neutron spectroscopy, reconstructing neutron energies from nuclear recoil. This technique overcomes challenges in direct neutron detection for improved accuracy in nuclear physics research.

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Area of Science:

Nuclear Physics
Atomic Physics
Spectroscopy

Background:

Beta-delayed neutron emission is crucial for understanding nuclear structure and reactions.
Traditional neutron spectroscopy faces challenges like detector backgrounds and complex response functions.
Trapped ion techniques offer novel approaches for precision measurements in nuclear science.

Purpose of the Study:

To demonstrate a novel technique for beta-delayed neutron spectroscopy using trapped ions.
To reconstruct the neutron-energy spectrum by measuring nuclear recoil time-of-flight.
To overcome limitations of conventional neutron detection methods.

Main Methods:

Utilized a linear Paul trap to confine Iodine-137 (137I(+)) ions from a Californium-252 (252Cf) source.
Measured the time-of-flight of nuclear recoil ions following neutron emission.
Detected beta(-) and recoil ions in coincidence with surrounding radiation detectors.

Main Results:

Successfully demonstrated beta-delayed neutron spectroscopy with trapped ions.
Reconstructed the neutron-energy spectrum by analyzing nuclear recoil kinematics.
Determined the branching ratio through three independent methods to explore systematic effects.

Conclusions:

The trapped ion technique provides a viable alternative to direct neutron detection for spectroscopy.
This method mitigates challenges related to scattered neutrons, gamma rays, and detector response functions.
Future improvements can enhance detection efficiency, energy resolution, and lower the neutron energy threshold.