Nuclear and in-source laser spectroscopy with the ISAC yield station

Area of Science:

• Nuclear Physics
• Atomic Physics
• Accelerator Science

Background:

• Radioactive ion beams (RIBs) are crucial for nuclear structure and astrophysics research.
• Characterizing RIBs requires sensitive and efficient detection systems capable of handling a wide range of intensities.
• Existing methods often face challenges with isobaric contamination and accurate half-life measurements.

Purpose of the Study:

• To introduce a new, versatile decay station at the ISAC facility for comprehensive radioactive ion beam analysis.
• To enable rapid and reliable characterization of RIB compositions and intensities.
• To facilitate simultaneous collection of alpha, beta, and gamma decay data.

Main Methods:

• Development and implementation of a new decay station at TRIUMF's ISAC facility.
• Simultaneous collection of alpha, beta, and gamma decay data for RIBs.
• Utilizing individual decay time structure analysis for unambiguous spectral line assignment.
• Coupling the yield station with the TRILIS laser ion source for correlated radiometric and laser spectroscopy data.
• Demonstrating accurate half-life measurements using Potassium-46 as a test case.

Main Results:

• The new decay station successfully characterizes RIBs with intensities from a few to approximately 10^11 ions per second.
• Unambiguous assignment of alpha and gamma lines is achieved, even in the presence of significant isobaric contamination.
• Accurate half-life measurements were demonstrated, exemplified by (46)K.
• Initial in-source laser spectroscopy measurements on astatine were successfully performed and are discussed.

Conclusions:

• The new decay station provides a robust platform for advanced radioactive ion beam studies.
• The system's capabilities enhance the precision and efficiency of nuclear decay measurements.
• Integration with laser spectroscopy opens new avenues for in-depth atomic and nuclear property investigations.