Experimental validation of 23Na( γ, n)22Na cross section
Marek Zmeškal1, Michal Košťál1, Jan Šimon1
1Research Centre Rez, Hlavni 130, Husinec-Rez, 250 68, Czech Republic.
Summary
Accurate photonuclear reaction data is crucial for accelerator safety. This study validates cross-section data using a microtron, finding that current libraries overestimate photonuclear cross-sections for Sodium-23.
Area of Science:
- Nuclear Physics
- Accelerator Technology
Background:
- Photonuclear reactions are critical for accelerator component shielding and activation.
- Accurate cross-section data is essential for reliable modeling and safety assessments.
Purpose of the Study:
- To validate photonuclear reaction cross-section data.
- To assess the accuracy of evaluated data libraries.
Main Methods:
- Utilized the MT25 microtron at NPI for bremsstrahlung experiments.
- Employed gold and copper foils as flux monitors.
- Simulated bremsstrahlung spectra using Geant4 code.
- Calculated spectral-averaged cross-sections for the 23Na(γ, x)22Na reaction above 10 MeV.
Main Results:
- The NPI facility was confirmed suitable for cross-section validation.
- All evaluated data libraries overestimated the photonuclear cross-section for 23Na.
- The JENDL-5 library provided the closest results to the experimental data.
Conclusions:
- Experimental validation confirms the overestimation of 23Na photonuclear cross-sections by existing libraries.
- The JENDL-5 library shows improved accuracy for this specific reaction.
- The validated facility supports future precise cross-section measurements.
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