Neutron-induced gamma-ray production cross sections for the first excited-state transitions in Ne-20 and Ne-22

TL;DR

This study measures neutron-induced gamma-ray production cross sections for Ne-20 and Ne-22, providing essential data to improve background predictions in low-background experiments and refine nuclear reaction models.

Contribution

First experimental gamma-ray cross sections for (n,n') reactions in neon, aiding background prediction and model refinement in nuclear physics.

Findings

Measured cross sections for Ne-20 and Ne-22 first excited states

Compared experimental data with TALYS and CoH3 models

Provided new data to constrain nuclear reaction models in neon

Abstract

Background: Neutron-induced reactions are a significant concern for experiments that require extremely low levels of radioactive backgrounds. Measurements of gamma-ray production cross sections over a wide energy range will help to predict and identify neutron backgrounds in these experiments. Purpose: Determine partial gamma-ray production cross sections for neutron-induced reactions in natural neon. Methods: The broad-spectrum neutron beam at the Los Alamos Neutron Science Center (LANSCE) was used for the measurement. Gamma rays from neutron-induced reactions were detected using the GErmanium Array for Neutron Induced Excitations (GEANIE). Results: Partial gamma-ray cross sections were measured for the first excited-state transitions in Ne-20 and Ne-22. The measured cross sections were compared to the TALYS and CoH3 nuclear reaction codes. Conclusions: These are the first experimental data for (n,n') reactions in neon. In addition to providing data to aid in the prediction and identification of neutron backgrounds in low-background experiments, these new measurements will help refine cross-section predictions in a mass region where models are not well constrained.