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Couture, A.

Publications and source records attributed to Couture, A..

At least 19 records
All sourcesNASA NTRSDOE OSTI
DOE OSTI2025

Constraining explosive nucleosynthesis by indirect reaction methods at storage rings using unstable beams in batch mode

Nuclear reaction studies on unstable isotopes can strongly help in improving our understanding of nucleosynthesis in stars. Indirect approaches to determining astrophysical reaction rates are increasingly common-place and undergoing continuous refinement. Of particular interest is the use of such indirect techniques at storage rings, which, among other aspects, allow to recycle rare unstable beams. Here, we propose to investigate the reaction rates of astrophysical interest using indirect methods (surrogate, Trojan horse, etc.) in reverse kinematics at the IMP-CAS storage ring. Long lived radioactive ion beams, produced remotely, can be accelerated, and made to interact with light targets. The proposed reactions are 85 Kr(p, p’γ), 85 Kr(d, pγ), constraining the neutron flux in an s-process branching point, 79 Se(p, p’γ), 79 Se(d, pγ), constraining the temperature in s-process nucleosyntheses, and 59 Fe(d, pγ), constraining core collapse supernovae.

Angelis, G. de [National Inst. of Nuclear Physics ↗
DOE OSTI2024

Using DAPPER to extract the photon strength function of 58Fe using the inverse Oslo and shape methods

The photon strength function of 58 Fe has been extracted using both the Oslo and Shape methods from particle-γ coincidence data measured using the Detector Array for Photons, Protons, and Exotic Residues, which probes nuclei utilizing (d,p) reactions in inverse kinematics. Four particle-γ coincidence matrices, each constructed with different treatments of the γ-ray energies, are explored in order to observe the impact on the resulting nuclear level density and photon strength. The final photon strength function reported is found to agree well with previous Oslo measurements of other iron isotopes. Systematic uncertainties are included, using different model parameters and their reported errors to perform the Oslo method normalization. The model-independent Shape method is explored and the functional form of the photon strength function obtained is in agreement with the Oslo method results. A low-energy enhancement is not reported for 58 Fe in this work given possible subtraction issues originating from strongly populated states.

73 NUCLEAR PHYSICS AND RADIATION PHYSICS↗
DOE OSTI2024

Enhanced production of 60 Fe in massive stars

Massive stars are a major source of chemical elements in the cosmos, ejecting freshly produced nuclei through winds and core-collapse supernova explosions into the interstellar medium. Among the material ejected, long-lived radioisotopes, such as 60 Fe (iron) and 26 Al (aluminum), offer unique signs of active nucleosynthesis in our galaxy. There is a long-standing discrepancy between the observed 60 Fe/ 26 Al ratio by γ-ray telescopes and predictions from supernova models. This discrepancy has been attributed to uncertainties in the nuclear reaction networks producing 60 Fe, and one reaction in particular, the neutron-capture on 59 Fe. Here we present experimental results that provide a strong constraint on this reaction. We use these results to show that the production of 60 Fe in massive stars is higher than previously thought, further increasing the discrepancy between observed and predicted 60 Fe/ 26 Al ratios. The persisting discrepancy can therefore not be attributed to nuclear uncertainties, and points to issues in massive-star models.

73 NUCLEAR PHYSICS AND RADIATION PHYSICS↗
DOE OSTI2024

A multi-Physics Experiment for Low-Yield Nuclear Explosion Monitoring

A series of multi-physics experiments, referred to as Physics Experiment 1 (PE1) is underway at the United States’ Nevada National Security Site (NNSS). The PE1 series includes detonations of three underground chemical explosions in P-tunnel, with fully coupled (PE1 A), partially decoupled (PE1 D L ), and fully decoupled (PE1 B) emplacements. Canisters with gas tracers are imbedded in the explosives, and the tracers are released when the canister is destroyed by the detonation. A dedicated electromagnetic (EM) experiment (EMX) generates well-characterized EM signals at an underground location near the chemical explosive experiments. A series of atmospheric experiments (METEX, REACT, and METREX) release smoke and radioactive tracers around Aqueduct Mesa to test gas transport in complex topography. Each of the chemical explosive experiments includes a network of sensors to record seismic, acoustic, and electromagnetic waves, measurement of atmospheric conditions, and air sample collection for measurement of tracer concentration. EMX records EM signals underground and on the surface of Aqueduct Mesa. METEX, REACT, and METREX include measurement of atmospheric condition, as well as tracking smoke releases. REACT and METREX add low-level radioactive gas tracers to the atmospheric releases.

58 GEOSCIENCES↗
DOE OSTI2024

Innovative approaches to neutron beam optimization: A case study of FP14 at LANSCE

This paper describes an experimental method to acquire high resolution energy- and spatially- resolved neutron beam spots using the time-gated neutron imaging system with Teledyne Pi-MAX4 camera. These experimental data offer a unique opportunity for benchmarking beam spot simulations. High-quality simulations depend significantly on a high-fidelity geometry model, which can be challenging for legacy facilities. We informed our MCNPX geometry model by latest metrology survey employing Leica laser tracker ATS600. It gave us a high fidelity description of our facility geometry. Such a robust integration of novel tools and methods yields a previously unattainable level of accuracy in both predicting and capturing neutron beam spots, marking a notable advancement over traditional methods reliant on static image plates. Here, to demonstrate the practical application of these tools, we are showing a non-uniform beam spot challenge at our Flight Path 14 (FP14) at the Los Alamos Neutron Science Center (LANSCE). Our precise MCNPX prediction of beam spot shifting as function of neutron energy was confirmed by experimental beam spot measured with extremely high level of detail. Results of this research demonstrate a significant leap in neutron beam optimization at LANSCE and set a new benchmark in beam spot characterization. The advanced methods presented here have potential for adoption at similar research facilities worldwide, aiming at substantial improvement in neutron beam delivery for experiments.

46 INSTRUMENTATION RELATED TO NUCLEAR SCIENCE AND ↗
DOE OSTI2023

Consistent Nuclear Data Evaluations for Criticality Safety [Slides]

This presentation covers consistent nuclear data evaluations for criticality safety. Topics include the evaluation procedure, n+ 139 La evaluation, the work in progress for the n+ 233 U evaluation (emphasis on capture), and a concluding Summary.

07 ISOTOPE AND RADIATION SOURCES↗
DOE OSTI2023

Consistent Nuclear Data Evaluations for Criticality Safety

Evaluations of nuclear data are based on statistical analysis of available experimental data and their uncertainties plus model calculations and their uncertainties. As the models are currently rather limited, the evaluations are heavily biassed toward experimental data, with the caveat that a thorough analysis is also required to understand possible discrepancies between data sets. Hence, as new experimental data become available, they are incorporated into the evaluation procedure. Recent measurements of the 233 U capture to fission cross section ratio at the Los Alamos Neutron Science Center have prompted a re-evaluation of the capture cross section in the resonance and fast regions up to 250 keV. We will discuss the challenges of including the new fast neutron experimental data in an evaluation that is consistent with the resonance region. We will also discuss our consistent evaluation procedure based on the Hauser-Feshbach statistical model for nuclear reactions and its application to the evaluations of 239 Pu and 139 La neutron-induced reactions.

73 NUCLEAR PHYSICS AND RADIATION PHYSICS↗
DOE OSTI2023

A Large Area Picosecond Photodetector for Neutron Transmission Measurements at DICER at LANSCE

The Device for Indirect Capture Experiments on Radionuclides (DICER) is a new instrument that is being developed at the Los Alamos Neutron Science Center (LANSCE) to study neutron capture reactions on short-lived radionuclides. To achieve that, DICER is using an indirect technique based on measuring the neutron transmission through very small samples (0.12–1.2 mm in diameter, $\mu \text{g}$ -mg in mass). The main detection system of DICER consists of two dual photomultiplier (PMT)-based detectors which are sensitive to the scintillation light produced when neutrons interact with 6 Li glass disks. DICER is developing a new collimation system that includes a 0.1-mm collimator. In such small sizes, the need for neutron beam imaging is crucial and necessary to confirm the appropriate alignment between the irradiated sample and the neutron detectors. The large area picosecond photodetector (LAPPD) is a multichannel plate (MCP)-based photodetector, with picosecond-level timing, single-photon detection capabilities, and spatial resolution of the order of 1 mm. Coupling the LAPPD with a 6 Li glass scintillator results in a neutron imaging detector. The first irradiation of the LAPPD at DICER indicated that apart from imaging the beam, the LAPPD can be used as the main neutron detection system. Furthermore, these results were proof of principle measurements demonstrating the capabilities of the beamline, and the challenge with small samples will be addressed in the future. The first efforts and developments, including irradiations of the LAPPD and the first beam images, will be presented.

46 INSTRUMENTATION RELATED TO NUCLEAR SCIENCE AND ↗
DOE OSTI2023

Statistical (n,$$\gamma $$) cross section model comparison for short-lived nuclei

Abstract Neutron-capture cross sections of neutron-rich nuclei are calculated using a Hauser–Feshbach model when direct experimental cross sections cannot be obtained. A number of codes to perform these calculations exist, and each makes different assumptions about the underlying nuclear physics. We investigated the systematic uncertainty associated with the choice of Hauser-Feshbach code used to calculate the neutron-capture cross section of a short-lived nucleus. The neutron-capture cross section for $$^{73}\hbox {Zn}$$ 73 Zn (n, $$\gamma $$ γ ) $$^{74}\hbox {Zn}$$ 74 Zn was calculated using three Hauser-Feshbach statistical model codes: TALYS, CoH, and EMPIRE. The calculation was first performed without any changes to the default settings in each code. Then an experimentally obtained nuclear level density (NLD) and $$\gamma $$ γ -ray strength function ( $$\gamma \hbox {SF}$$ γ SF ) were included. Finally, the nuclear structure information was made consistent across the codes. The neutron-capture cross sections obtained from the three codes are in good agreement after including the experimentally obtained NLD and $$\gamma \hbox {SF}$$ γ SF , accounting for differences in the underlying nuclear reaction models, and enforcing consistent approximations for unknown nuclear data. It is possible to use consistent inputs and nuclear physics to reduce the differences in the calculated neutron-capture cross section from different Hauser-Feshbach codes. However, ensuring the treatment of the input of experimental data and other nuclear physics are similar across multiple codes requires a careful investigation. For this reason, more complete documentation of the inputs and physics chosen is important.

72 PHYSICS OF ELEMENTARY PARTICLES AND FIELDS↗
DOE OSTI2021

The status and future of direct nuclear reaction measurements for stellar burning

The study of stellar burning began just over 100 years ago. Nonetheless, we do not yet have a detailed picture of the nucleosynthesis within stars and how nucleosynthesis impacts stellar structure and the remnants of stellar evolution. Achieving this understanding will require precise direct measurements of the nuclear reactions involved. Furthermore, this report summarizes the status of direct measurements for stellar burning, focusing on developments of the last couple of decades, and offering a prospectus of near-future developments.

73 NUCLEAR PHYSICS AND RADIATION PHYSICS↗
DOE OSTI2021

β-decay feeding intensity distributions of 71,73 Ni

This paper presents the β-decay feeding intensity distribution and Gamow-Teller transition strength distribution of 71,73 Ni. These quantities were measured using the technique of total absorption spectroscopy at the National Superconducting Cyclotron Laboratory with the Summing NaI(Tl) detector. These measurements provide sensitive constraints to theoretical models used to predict β-decay properties far from stability for astrophysical applications. Specifically, for the astrophysical r process, the majority of the involved nuclei are not accessible by current facilities, and the nuclear input is mainly provided by theory. Furthermore, the present work reports on two neutron-rich nickel isotopes in the region where the weak r process is expected to be relevant in stellar nucleosynthesis. The experimental results are compared to two theoretical models, namely the shell model and the quasiparticle random-phase approximation, to help further refine theoretical calculations and aid in future r-process studies.

73 NUCLEAR PHYSICS AND RADIATION PHYSICS↗
DOE OSTI2019

Benchmarking the extraction of statistical neutron capture cross sections on short-lived nuclei for applications using the β -Oslo method

Numerous scientific fields including astrophysics, nuclear power, and nuclear forensics require a knowledge of basic nuclear properties for large numbers of short-lived, radioactive isotopes far removed from stable nuclei. Neutron-capture cross sections are one such piece of nuclear data where direct measurements are not possible and theoretical predictions can vary by orders of magnitude. A recently developed indirect technique for inferring neutron capture rates, the β-Oslo method, has been introduced but not compared against a known, directly measured neutron capture cross section. To provide this benchmark, two indirect methods based on β decay and charged-particle reactions were used to extract the nuclear level density and γ-ray strength function of 51 Ti. The nuclear level density and γ-ray strength function from the two data sets were found to be equivalent and were used to extract the neutron capture cross section of 50 Ti which agrees with previous direct measurements at high neutron energies. Here, the results demonstrate the validity of the β-Oslo method for extracting neutron capture cross sections of short-lived nuclei and provide a sufficiently small uncertainty to be used in various applications.

73 NUCLEAR PHYSICS AND RADIATION PHYSICS↗
DOE OSTI2019

Measurement of the neutron capture cross section on argon

The use of argon as a detection and shielding medium for neutrino and dark matter experiments has made a precise knowledge of the cross section for neutron capture on argon an important design and operational parameter. While previous measurements were averaged over thermal spectra and have significant disagreements, a differential measurement has been performed using a Time-Of-Flight neutron beam and a ~4π gamma spectrometer. Here, a fit to the differential cross section from 0.015-0.15 eV, assuming a 1/v energy dependence, yields σ 2200 = 673 ± 26 (stat.) ± 59 (sys.) mb.

72 PHYSICS OF ELEMENTARY PARTICLES AND FIELDS↗
DOE OSTI2019

Experimental constraints on the Zn 73 ( n , γ ) Zn 74 reaction rate

Background: The recent observation of a neutron-star merger finally confirmed one astrophysical location of the rapid neutron-capture process (r-process). Evidence of the production of A < 140 nuclei was seen, but there is still little detailed information about how those lighter elements are produced in such an environment. Many of the questions surrounding the A ≈ 80 nuclei are likely to be answered only when the nuclear physics involved in the production of r-process nuclei is well understood. Neutron-capture reactions are an important component of the r-process, and neutron-capture cross sections of r-process nuclei, which are very neutron rich, have large uncertainties. Purpose: Indirectly determine the neutron-capture cross section and reaction rate of 73 Zn(n,γ ) 74 Zn. Methods: The nuclear level density (NLD) and γ-ray strength function (γSF) of 74 Zn were determined following a total absorption spectroscopy (TAS) experiment focused on the β decay of 74 Cu into 74 Zn performed at the National Superconducting Cyclotron Laboratory. The NLD and γSF were used as inputs in a Hauser-Feshbach statistical model to calculate the neutron-capture cross section and reaction rate. Results: The NLD and γSF of 74 Zn were experimentally constrained for the first time using β-delayed γ rays measured with TAS and the β-Oslo method. The NLD and γSF were then used to constrain the neutron-capture cross section and reaction rate for the 73 Zn(n, γ ) 74 Zn reaction. In Conclusion, the uncertainty in the neutron-capture cross section and reaction rate of 73 Zn(n, γ ) 74 Zn calculated in TALYS was reduced to under a factor of 2 from a factor of 5 in the cross section and a factor of 11 in the reaction rate using the experimentally obtained NLD and γSF.

73 NUCLEAR PHYSICS AND RADIATION PHYSICS↗
DOE OSTI2018

Enhanced low-energy γ -decay strength of Ni 70 and its robustness within the shell model

Neutron-capture reactions on very neutron-rich nuclei are essential for heavy-element nucleosynthesis through the rapid neutron-capture process, now shown to take place in neutron-star merger events. For these exotic nuclei, radiative neutron capture is extremely sensitive to their γ-emission probability at very low γ energies. In this work, we present measurements of the γ-decay strength of 70 Ni over the wide range 1.3 ≤ Eγ ≤ 8 MeV. A significant enhancement is found in the γ -decay strength for transitions with Eγ < 3 MeV. At present, this is the most neutron-rich nucleus displaying this feature, proving that this phenomenon is not restricted to stable nuclei. We have performed E1-strength calculations within the quasiparticle time-blocking approximation, which describe our data above Eγ ≃ 5 MeV very well. Moreover, large-scale shell-model calculations indicate an M1 nature of the low-energy γ strength. This turns out to be remarkably robust with respect to the choice of interaction, truncation, and model space, and we predict its presence in the whole isotopic chain, in particular the neutron-rich 72,74,76Ni.

59 ≤ A ≤ 89↗