A simple method to prepare deuterated targets for experiments relevant to nuclear astrophysics

Area of Science:

• Materials Science
• Nuclear Physics

Background:

• Deuterated polyethylene targets are crucial for nuclear physics research.
• Existing preparation methods can be complex and require cryogenic conditions.

Purpose of the Study:

• To develop a simple and efficient method for preparing deuterated polyethylene targets.
• To enable convenient target removal without cryogenic freezing.

Main Methods:

• Utilizing the difference in thermal expansion between deuterated polyethylene and a glass casting surface.
• Determining target thickness via alpha (α) energy loss.
• Verifying material retention using Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy and attenuated total reflection.

Main Results:

• Achieved target thicknesses ranging from 100 µg/cm² to 350 µg/cm².
• Thickness variation within the foils was controlled between 4% and 10%.
• Confirmed material retention properties of the deuterated foils.

Conclusions:

• The described method offers a straightforward and efficient approach to deuterated polyethylene target preparation.
• The technique facilitates easy target removal and provides well-characterized targets for research.