Search for the high-spin members of the $α$:2n:$α$ band in $^{10}$Be

Abstract

Method: Measuring excitation functions for $^{6}$He+$α$ scattering, populating states in the excitation energy range from 4.5 MeV to 8 MeV in $^{10}$Be using a $^6$He rare-isotope beam and a thick helium gas target. Results: No new excited states in $^{10}$Be have been observed. Stringent limitation on the possible degree of $α$-clustering of the hypothetical yrast 6$^+$ state has been obtained. Conclusions: The high-spin members of the $α$:2n:$α$ molecular-like rotational band configuration, that is considered to have a 0$^+$ bandhead at 6.18 MeV, either do not exist or have small overlap with the $^{6}$He(g.s.)+$α$ channel.