Neutron-inducedγ-ray production cross sections for the first excited-state transitions in20Ne and22Ne

Abstract

Background: Neutron-induced reactions are a significant concern for experiments that require extremely low levels of radioactive backgrounds. Measurements of $\ensuremath{\gamma}$-ray production cross sections over a wide energy range help to predict and identify neutron backgrounds in these experiments.Purpose: The purpose of this experiment is to determine partial $\ensuremath{\gamma}$-ray production cross sections for neutron-induced reactions in natural neon.Methods: The broad spectrum neutron beam at the Los Alamos Neutron Science Center (LANSCE) was used for the measurement. Gamma rays from neutron-induced reactions were detected using the GErmanium Array for Neutron Induced Excitations (GEANIE).Results: Partial $\ensuremath{\gamma}$-ray cross sections were measured for the first excited-state transitions in ${}^{20}$Ne and ${}^{22}$Ne. The measured cross sections were compared to the talys and CoH${}_{3}$ nuclear reaction codes.Conclusions: These are the first experimental data for ($n,{n}^{\ensuremath{'}}$) reactions in neon. In addition to providing data to aid in the prediction and identification of neutron backgrounds in low-background experiments, these new measurements will help refine cross-section predictions in a mass region where models are not well constrained.