p-process chaser detector in $n$-$\gamma$ coincidences

TL;DR

This paper proposes novel neutron-$\gamma$ coincidence detectors to investigate gamma transitions in nuclear reactions relevant to p-nuclei production, focusing on mediating states in $^{180}$Ta.

Contribution

Introduction of two types of triple coincidence detectors designed to identify gamma transitions and mediating states in the p-process, enhancing nuclear reaction studies.

Findings

Designed detectors for neutron-$\gamma$-$\gamma$ coincidences

Search for mediating states in $^{180}$Ta

Potential to identify resonant and unresolved states

Abstract

We propose two types of neutron-$\gamma_1$-$\gamma_2$ triple coincidence detectors (not constructed) to chase gamma transitions to produce p-nuclei following the neutron emission in the $(\gamma, n)$ reaction. Neutrons are detected with 24 $^3$He counters embedded in a polyethylene moderator in Type I detector and with 6 liquid scintillation detectors in Type II detector, respectively. $\gamma$ rays are detected with two high-purity germanium detectors and four LaBr$_3$(Ce) detectors. The detector which is referred to as p-process chaser detector is used to search for mediating states in $^{180}$Ta through which the isomeric and ground states in $^{180}$Ta are thermalized in the p-process. A search is made for both resonant states and unresolved states in high nuclear-level-density domain.