RIB studies for explosive scenarios and future opportunities at FRIB

Abstract

An accreting compact star in a binary system can generate periodic thermonuclear runaways on its surface. In the case of a white dwarf star, the result is a classical nova, which enriches the interstellar medium with newly synthesized nuclides. In the case of a neutron star, a detectable burst of X-rays is emitted. Nucleosynthesis and energy generation in these events depends on resonant thermonuclear reaction rates, which are especially challenging to measure directly in the laboratory when they involve radioactive reactants. Fortunately, the resonances can be discovered and their relevant properties can be constructed using nuclear structure experiments. We will describe a program of beta decay experiments the National Superconducting Cyclotron Laboratory to this end. In particular, the Gaseous Detector with Germanium Tagging (GADGET) system, developed to measure very weak low-energy beta delayed proton emission branches and gamma rays, is now operational. Recent results and future opportunities at the Facility for Rare Isotope Beams will be discussed.