Speaker
Description
Neutrino wind-driven supernova models provide strong evidence for the production of light, proton-rich heavy elements such as Sr, Y, and Zr, which remain inadequately explained by existing nucleosynthesis processes. This presentation will highlight on advancements in direct measurements of neutron-induced reactions on radionuclides, specifically the $^{56}$Ni(n,p) reaction, which plays a critical role in the $\nu$p-process nucleosynthesis pathway. Using the unique capabilities of Los Alamos Neutron Science Center’s neutron facility and its Isotope Production Facility (IPF), the reaction rate was experimentally measured for the first time. This study reveals the significant impact of neutron-induced reactions on proton-rich nuclei in better understanding of neutron poisoning reactions at waiting points, directly influencing elemental abundances. Advanced techniques in chemical separation, target fabrication, and collimation optimization were employed to produce and characterize high-purity samples, enabling precise cross-section measurements on radionuclides. These findings improve our understanding of the $\nu$p-process by including recent experimental rates to constrain astrophysical models and address uncertainties in astrophysical simulations. Future work includes developing an optimized solenoidal spectrometer and the upgraded neutron source at LANSCE to expand the scope of radionuclide reaction studies, improving nuclear astrophysics models and broadening the scientific impact of these experiments.
