Abstract
A new method of searching for neutron clusters (multineutrons) composed of neutrons bound by nuclear forces has been introduced and implemented. The method is based on the search for daughter nuclei that emerge at the nuclei cluster decay of 252Cf to neutron clusters. The effect of long-time build-up of daughter nuclei with a high atomic number and long half-life was utilized. The results are interpreted as evidence of the cluster decay of 252Cf to daughter nucleus 232U (half-life of T1/2= 68.9 years). The emergence of 232U is attributed to emission of neutron clusters consisting of eight neutrons - octaneutrons. The emission probability of octaneutrons against α-decay probability of 252Cf is defined equal to λC/λα=1.74×10 -6.
Original language | English |
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Pages (from-to) | 73-78 |
Number of pages | 6 |
Journal | Nuclear Instruments and Methods in Physics Research, Section A: Accelerators, Spectrometers, Detectors and Associated Equipment |
Volume | 760 |
DOIs | |
Publication status | Published - 1 Oct 2014 |
Keywords
- Cluster decay of nucleus
- Daughter nucleus
- Emission probability of octaneutron
- High pure germanium detector
- Neutron cluster
- Spectrum of γ-quanta
ASJC Scopus subject areas
- Nuclear and High Energy Physics
- Instrumentation