16O(n,α) cross section investigation using LENZ instrument at LANSCE

Abstract

Importance of studying the 16 O(n, α ) reaction is motivated by multiple nuclear applications. The Los Alamos Neutron Science Center (LANSCE) produces a white neutron spectrum ranging from thermal to several hundreds of MeV energies. We have recently developed the LENZ (Low Energy NZ-neutron induced charged particle detection) capability to measure high-precision (n, α ) cross sections. In order to provide more reliable data, we have enhanced solid angle coverage, and improved signal-to-noise ratios and time-of-flight resolution by implementing digitizer waveform analysis. The LENZ was commissioned by studying the 59 Co(n, α ) reaction with neutron beams in early 2015. For the 16 O(n, α ) reaction, we investigate solid oxygen targets and make a relative measurement to a better known cross section, such as the 6 Li(n, α ) reaction in order to further reduce systematic uncertainty. We will discuss the progress of the 16 O(n, α ) study at LANSCE and the outlook for improving Hauser-Feshbah prediction on (n,p) reaction cross sections.