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Optimised neutron yield calculations from (α,n) reactions with the modified SOURCES4 code.

M Parvu1, P Krawczun2, V A Kudryavtsev2

  • 1Faculty of Physics, University of Bucharest, POBox 11, 077125, Magurele, Romania.

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This study refines neutron background calculations for rare event searches. New calculations using updated alpha-neutron (α,n) reaction cross-sections improve accuracy for dark matter and neutrino experiments.

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Area of Science:

  • Nuclear physics
  • Particle physics
  • Astrophysics

Background:

  • Underground experiments for rare events (dark matter, neutrinos) are limited by neutron backgrounds.
  • Neutrons originate from spontaneous fission and alpha-neutron (α,n) reactions.
  • Accurate neutron yield and energy spectra calculations are crucial for sensitivity.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To present new neutron production calculations using the modified SOURCES4 code.
  • To incorporate updated cross-sections for (α,n) reactions.
  • To compare calculation results with experimental data.

Main Methods:

  • Utilized the modified SOURCES4 code for neutron production calculations.
  • Integrated recently updated experimental cross-sections for (α,n) reactions.
  • Supplemented with EMPIRE, TALYS, and JENDL-5 calculations where experimental data were limited.

Main Results:

  • Presented new neutron production calculations based on refined (α,n) cross-sections.
  • Demonstrated agreement between calculations and available experimental data from alpha beams and radioactive decays.
  • Identified reliable cross-sections for accurate neutron background estimation.

Conclusions:

  • The updated SOURCES4 code with new cross-sections provides more accurate neutron background predictions.
  • These improved calculations are vital for enhancing the sensitivity of rare event search experiments.
  • The study offers a validated approach for selecting reliable cross-sections in nuclear astrophysics and particle physics research.