Examining the potential synthesis of new elements with $^{294}$Og

TL;DR

This paper proposes a novel dual-target nuclear reaction method involving hydrogen to synthesize element 119, aiming to overcome current limitations of traditional fusion-evaporation techniques in superheavy element production.

Contribution

It introduces an innovative dual-target approach with hydrogen to potentially enhance superheavy element synthesis, extending the possibilities beyond current methods.

Findings

Potential for increased production rates of element 119

Feasibility of using isotopes like deuterium or helium-3 as targets

Possibility of synthesizing elements 120 and 121

Abstract

In the relentless pursuit of expanding the periodic table, the discovery of element 119 remains elusive, despite two decades of dedicated research efforts. The traditional fusion-evaporation approach, although fruitful in the past, now appears to be approaching its operational limits. This scenario sets the stage for considering innovative methodologies essential for further advancements in the field of superheavy elements. Here, we introduce a pioneering strategy aimed at synthesizing element 119 by adapting and extending the nuclear reaction processes previously successful in producing element $^{294}$Og. This involved the fusion of $^{48}$Ca and $^{249}$Cf. Building on this, our novel approach incorporates an additional reactive target -- specifically, hydrogen -- positioned strategically behind the $^{249}$Cf. This configuration is designed to facilitate an immediate secondary reaction of the nascent $^{294}$Og with hydrogen, potentially forging new pathways to element 119. Preliminary insights also suggest that employing isotopes like deuterium or helium-3 as targets may not only enhance the production rates of element 119 but might also pave the way for the synthesis of even heavier elements, extending up to elements 120 and 121. We delve into the technicalities and feasibility of employing a dual-target method using a $^{48}$Ca beam, exploring new horizons in the quest for the superheavy unknown.