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Neutron capture measurements for s-process nucleosynthesis: A review about CERN n_TOF developments and contributions
C Domingo-Pardo1, O Aberle2, V Alcayne3
1Instituto de Física Corpuscular, CSIC, Universidad de Valencia, Valencia, Spain.
The European Physical Journal. A, Hadrons and Nuclei
|May 22, 2025
Summary
The n_TOF facility at CERN has significantly advanced neutron-capture experiments for s-process nucleosynthesis over 25 years. Enhanced detection systems and facility upgrades improve understanding of stellar nucleosynthesis, especially for radioactive isotopes.
Area of Science:
- Nuclear Astrophysics
- Particle Physics
- Stellar Nucleosynthesis
Background:
- The s-process (slow neutron capture) is crucial for synthesizing heavy elements in stars.
- Accurate neutron-capture cross-sections are vital for stellar models.
- Previous measurements faced challenges, particularly for radioactive isotopes.
Purpose of the Study:
- Review CERN n_TOF's 25-year contributions to s-process nucleosynthesis research.
- Highlight advancements in measuring neutron-capture cross-sections, especially for radioactive isotopes.
- Discuss future directions and facility needs for improved astrophysical understanding.
Main Methods:
- Time-of-Flight (TOF) technique for neutron energy determination.
- Detection systems for charged particles and gamma rays.
- Activation techniques for radioactive and stable isotope measurements.
- Utilizing ISOLDE radioactive ion beams for sample production.
Main Results:
- Significant progress in measuring neutron-capture cross-sections for s-process branching nuclei.
- Demonstrated impact of improved detection and facility upgrades on experimental capabilities.
- Enhanced understanding and modeling of the s-process nucleosynthesis mechanism.
- Successful measurements on both stable and radioactive isotopes of astrophysical interest.
Conclusions:
- CERN n_TOF has made substantial contributions to s-process studies over 25 years.
- Advances in technology have enabled more precise and challenging measurements.
- Future upgrades are needed to address current limitations and explore new frontiers, including inverse kinematics.
- Continued research is essential for refining stellar models and understanding element origins.
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