Updated Results for Kinematic Factors in Double Beta Decays

TL;DR

This paper provides updated calculations of phase space factors and related kinematic quantities for various double-beta decay modes, improving accuracy for experimental design and data interpretation.

Contribution

It introduces an adapted Dirac-Hartree-Fock-Slater method for more precise PSF calculations, including atomic effects, and supplies comprehensive tables for multiple isotopes.

Findings

Updated PSFs align with recent literature predictions.

Differences found in some isotopes suggest need for refined models.

Numerical data provided for key isotopes like Ge-76 and Xe-136.

Abstract

Accurate calculations of phase space factors (PSFs), electron energy spectra and angular correlations are essential for designing and interpreting double-beta decay (DBD) experiments. These quantities help maximize sensitivity to potential signals, distinguish between different decay modes and interpret the data. In this work we provide updated results for these kinematic factors for two-neutrino ($2\nu\beta\beta$) and neutrinoless ($0\nu\beta\beta$) decay modes, including electron-emission, positron-emission and electron capture transitions. The calculations are performed with an adapted Dirac-Hartree-Fock-Slater method which allows for orthogonality of the wave functions of electrons and positrons in bound and continuum states and incorporates relevant atomic features such us screening, finite nuclear size, exchange corrections and phase shift effects. We provide tables with updated PSFs calculated both in the closure approximation and using the Taylor expansion method, for a large number of DBD isotopes. We discuss the impact of individual atomic corrections and find that our results are in line with predictions reported in recent literature. In some specific cases we find differences between our PSF values and those previously reported which are worth considering for better prediction and interpretation of DBD data. Then, we provide numerical values for $^{76}\text{Ge}$, $^{100}\text{Mo}$, $^{130}\text{Te}$ and $^{136}\text{Xe}$, which are most investigated in current DBD experiments. Similar data for other isotopes are available upon request.