Simulation studies for source optimization in $^{96}$Zr $\beta$ decay

TL;DR

This study uses simulation to optimize detector setup for observing the challenging beta decay of $^{96}$Zr, proposing a feasible experimental configuration to improve detection sensitivity.

Contribution

The paper introduces a simulation-based approach to optimize source and detector configuration for $^{96}$Zr beta decay experiments, enhancing detection prospects.

Findings

Optimal source mass estimated at ~70g of 50% enriched $^{96}$Zr.

Detector setup with four HPGe detectors achieves comparable sensitivity.

Simulation results guide experimental design for rare decay detection.

Abstract

The single $\beta$ decay of $^{96}$Zr to the ground state of $^{96}$Nb is spin forbidden and poses a great experimental challenge. The $\beta$ decay of $^{96}$Zr can be studied via coincident detection of de-exciting gamma rays in $^{96}$Mo, which is the end product of $^{96}$Nb $\beta$ decay. Simulations are done with four HPGe detector setup (~33% relative efficiency each) to optimize the source configuration. The results suggest that ~70g of 50% enriched $^{96}$Zr will yield sensitivity comparable to the reported results.