The ORNL Analysis Technique for Extracting $\beta$-Delayed Multi-Neutron Branching Ratios with BRIKEN

TL;DR

This paper introduces the ORNL BRIKEN analysis technique for accurately determining $eta$-delayed multi-neutron emission branching ratios in radioactive decay, accounting for various model assumptions and background influences.

Contribution

The paper presents a novel analysis method for extracting $eta$-delayed multi-neutron branching ratios using the BRIKEN detector, improving accuracy and reliability over previous approaches.

Findings

Applied to 7}Cu, demonstrating consistency with literature

Allows estimation of zero, one, and two-neutron emission activities

Provides a systematic approach for decay network analysis

Abstract

Many choices are available in order to evaluate large radioactive decay networks. %multi-particle decay data. There are many parameters that influence the calculated $\beta$-decay delayed single and multi-neutron emission branching fractions. We describe assumptions about the decay model, background, and other parameters and their influence on $\beta$-decay delayed multi-neutron emission analysis. An analysis technique, the ORNL BRIKEN analysis procedure, for determining $\beta$-delayed multi-neutron branching ratios in $\beta$-neutron precursors produced by means of heavy-ion fragmentation is presented. The technique is based on estimating the initial activities of zero, one, and two neutrons occurring in coincidence with an ion-implant and $\beta$ trigger. The technique allows one to extract $\beta$-delayed multi-neutron decay branching ratios measured with the hybrid \textsuperscript{3}He BRIKEN neutron counter. As an example, two analyses of the $\beta$-neutron emitter \textsuperscript{77}Cu based on different {\it a priori} assumptions are presented along with comparisons to literature values.