arXiv subjects

F. Murtas

Publications and source records attributed to F. Murtas.

At least 19 recordsLinked to original sources

arXiv2026

Improved $^{94}$Mo neutron resonance parameters from neutron capture and transmission measurements at n_TOF and GELINA

We report high-resolution measurements of the $^{94}\mathrm{Mo}(\mathrm{n},\gamma)^{95}\mathrm{Mo}$ cross section in the neutron energy range from a few eV up to about 250 keV, performed at the n_TOF facility (CERN), and of the $^{94}\mathrm{Mo}(\mathrm{n},\mathrm{tot})$ cross section up to 32 keV, measured at GELINA (JRC Geel). A combined R-matrix analysis of capture and transmission data yields significantly improved neutron-resonance parameters for $^{94}$Mo. A total of 186 resonances were observed in this analysis of which 127 reported here for the first time. The resulting Maxwellian-averaged cross section at stellar temperatures relevant to the slow neutron-capture process (s-process) is approximately 25% lower than previous evaluations and literature values. To assess the astrophysical impact of the revised cross section, we performed s-process nucleosynthesis calculations for low-mass asymptotic giant branch stars. Despite the substantial reduction in the $^{94}\mathrm{Mo}(\mathrm{n},\gamma)^{95}\mathrm{Mo}$ rate, the final yields vary by only 3-4%. This demonstrates that the isotopic budget of $^{94}$Mo in AGB stars is primarily governed by the branching flow at $^{94}\mathrm{Nb}$ rather than by the neutron-capture destruction on $^{94}$Mo itself. The new cross section thus helps disentangle nuclear cross-section uncertainties from branching-flow effects in the s-process production of $^{94}$Mo.

nucl-ex↗

arXiv2026

First $^{94}$Nb($n,\gamma$) Measurement: Constraining the Nucleosynthetic Origin of $^{94}$Mo in Presolar Grains

Isotopic measurements of presolar silicon carbide grains from dying stars have revealed a puzzling overabundance of $^{94}$Mo that stellar nucleosynthesis models have failed to reproduce for two decades. This discrepancy challenged our understanding of the slow neutron-capture process ($s$-process) that forges approximately half of the elements heavier than iron. The key uncertainty lies at $^{94}$Nb, a radiactive branching point where competition between neutron capture and beta decay governs the $^{94}$Mo production, yet the neutron-capture cross section had never been measured. Here we report the first experimental determination of the $^{94}$Nb(n,$\gamma$)$^{95}$Nb cross section important for Mo isotopic abundances. The measurement was enabled by a coordinated effort involving high-purity target preparation at Institute of Solid State and Materials Research (IFW) Dresden, radioactive sample production at the Institut Laue-Langevin (ILL) Grenoble, radiochemical characterization at Paul Scherrer Institute (PSI) Villigen, and the Time-of-Flight CERN n$\_$TOF facility using for the first time segmented total-energy detectors. Incorporation of the resulting Maxwellian-averaged cross section into fully coupled nucleosynthesis models of low-mass asymptotic giant branch (AGB) stars brings them into agreement with the presolar grain data. These results remove a major nuclear-physics input uncertainty at the $^{94}$Nb branching point and provide a firmer foundation for understanding the origin of $^{94}$Mo in the solar system.

nucl-ex↗

arXiv2024

Towards a new generation of solid total-energy detectors for neutron-capture time-of-flight experiments with intense neutron beams

Challenging neutron-capture cross-section measurements of small cross sections and samples with a very limited number of atoms require high-flux time-of-flight facilities. In turn, such facilities need innovative detection setups that are fast, have low sensitivity to neutrons, can quickly recover from the so-called $\gamma$-flash, and offer the highest possible detection sensitivity. In this paper, we present several steps toward such advanced systems. Specifically, we describe the performance of a high-sensitivity experimental setup at CERN n\_TOF EAR2. It consists of nine sTED detector modules in a compact cylindrical configuration, two conventional used large-volume C$_{6}$D$_{6}$ detectors, and one LaCl$_{3}$(Ce) detector. The performance of these detection systems is compared using $^{93}$Nb($n$,$\gamma$) data. We also developed a detailed \textsc{Geant4} Monte Carlo model of the experimental EAR2 setup, which allows for a better understanding of the detector features, including their efficiency determination. This Monte Carlo model has been used for further optimization, thus leading to a new conceptual design of a $\gamma$ detector array, STAR, based on a deuterated-stilbene crystal array. Finally, the suitability of deuterated-stilbene crystals for the future STAR array is investigaged experimentally utilizing a small stilbene-d12 prototype. The results suggest a similar or superior performance of STAR with respect to other setups based on liquid-scintillators, and allow for additional features such as neutron-gamma discrimination and a higher level of customization capability.

physics.ins-det↗

arXiv2023

Pushing the high count rate limits of scintillation detectors for challenging neutron-capture experiments

One of the critical aspects for the accurate determination of neutron capture cross sections when combining time-of-flight and total energy detector techniques is the characterization and control of systematic uncertainties associated to the measuring devices. In this work we explore the most conspicuous effects associated to harsh count rate conditions: dead-time and pile-up effects. Both effects, when not properly treated, can lead to large systematic uncertainties and bias in the determination of neutron cross sections. In the majority of neutron capture measurements carried out at the CERN n\_TOF facility, the detectors of choice are the C$_{6}$D$_{6}$ liquid-based either in form of large-volume cells or recently commissioned sTED detector array, consisting of much smaller-volume modules. To account for the aforementioned effects, we introduce a Monte Carlo model for these detectors mimicking harsh count rate conditions similar to those happening at the CERN n\_TOF 20~m fligth path vertical measuring station. The model parameters are extracted by comparison with the experimental data taken at the same facility during 2022 experimental campaign. We propose a novel methodology to consider both, dead-time and pile-up effects simultaneously for these fast detectors and check the applicability to experimental data from $^{197}$Au($n$,$\gamma$), including the saturated 4.9~eV resonance which is an important component of normalization for neutron cross section measurements.

physics.ins-det↗

arXiv2023

First measurement of the $^{94}$Nb($n$,$\gamma$) cross section at the CERN n\_TOF facility

One of the crucial ingredients for the improvement of stellar models is the accurate knowledge of neutron capture cross-sections for the different isotopes involved in the $s$-,$r$- and $i$- processes. These measurements can shed light on existing discrepancies between observed and predicted isotopic abundances and help to constrain the physical conditions where these reactions take place along different stages of stellar evolution.In the particular case of the radioactive $^{94}$Nb, the $^{94}$Nb($n$,$\gamma$) cross-section could play a role in the determination of the $s$-process production of $^{94}$Mo in AGB stars, which presently cannot be reproduced by state-of-the-art stellar models. There are no previous $^{94}$Nb($n$,$\gamma$) experimental data for the resolved and unresolved resonance regions mainly due to the difficulties in producing high-quality samples and also due to limitations in conventional detection systems commonly used in time-of-flight experiments.Motivated by this situation, a first measurement of the $^{94}$Nb($n$,$\gamma$) reaction was carried out at CERN n\_TOF, thereby exploiting the high luminosity of the EAR2 area in combination with a new detection system of small-volume C6D6-detectors and a high quality $^{94}$Nb-sample. The latter was based on hyper-pure $^{93}$Nb material activated at the high-flux reactor of ILL-Grenoble. An innovative ring-configuration detection system in close geometry around the capture sample allowed us to significantly enhance the signal-to-background ratio. This set-up was supplemented with two conventional C$_{6}$D$_{6}$ detectors and a high-resolution LaCl$_{3}$(Ce)-detector, which will be employed for addressing reliably systematic effects and uncertainties.At the current status of the data analysis, 18 resonance in $^{94}$Nb+$n$ have been observed for the first time in the neutron energy range from thermal up to 10 keV.

nucl-ex↗

arXiv2022

The CERN n TOF NEAR station for astrophysics- and application-related neutron activation measurements

A new experimental area, the NEAR station, has recently been built at the CERN n TOF facility, at a short distance from the spallation target (1.5 m). The new area, characterized by a neutron beam of very high flux, has been designed with the purpose of performing activation measurements of interest for astrophysics and various applications. The beam is transported from the spallation target to the NEAR station through a hole in the shielding wall of the target, inside which a collimator is inserted. The new area is complemented with a {\gamma}-ray spectroscopy laboratory, the GEAR station, equipped with a high efficiency HPGe detector, for the measurement of the activity resulting from irradiation of a sample in the NEAR station. The use of a moderator/filter assembly is envisaged, in order to produce a neutron beam of Maxwellian shape at different thermal energies, necessary for the measurement of Maxwellian Averaged Cross Sections of astrophysical interest. A new fast-cycling activation technique is also being investigated, for measurements of reactions leading to isotopes of very short half life.

physics.ins-det↗

arXiv2022

Advances and new ideas for neutron-capture astrophysics experiments at CERN n_TOF

This article presents a few selected developments and future ideas related to the measurement of $(n,\gamma)$ data of astrophysical interest at CERN n_TOF. The MC-aided analysis methodology for the use of low-efficiency radiation detectors in time-of-flight neutron-capture measurements is discussed, with particular emphasis on the systematic accuracy. Several recent instrumental advances are also presented, such as the development of total-energy detectors with $\gamma$-ray imaging capability for background suppression, and the development of an array of small-volume organic scintillators aimed at exploiting the high instantaneous neutron-flux of EAR2. Finally, astrophysics prospects related to the intermediate $i$ neutron-capture process of nucleosynthesis are discussed in the context of the new NEAR activation area.

nucl-ex↗

arXiv2022

Multiple scattering of channeled and non-channeled positively charged particles in bent monocrystalline silicon

We present the results of an experimental study of multiple scattering of positively charged high energy particles in bent samples of monocrystalline silicon. This work confirms the recently discovered effect of a strong reduction in the rms multiple scattering angle of particles channeled in the silicon (111) plane. The effect is observed in the plane orthogonal to the bending plane. We show in detail the influence of angular constraints on the magnitude of the effect. Comparison of the multiple scattering process at different energies indicates a violation of the law of inverse proportionality of the rms angle of channeled particles with energy. By increasing the statistics, we have improved the results of multiple scattering measurements for particles moving, but not channeled, in silicon crystals.

physics.acc-ph↗

arXiv2021

Radiation-induced effects in glass windows for optical readout GEM-based detectors

In this paper we present irradiation measurements performed to select a transparent anode substrate that best meets the requirements of an optical readout for a novel detector, the LaGEMPix. The modification of the optical properties of the material due to proton irradiation were studied in soda-lime, fused quartz and fused silica glasses coated with an Indium Tin Oxide layer. The irradiations were performed using the research Beam Transfer Line (BTL) of the IBA Cyclone 18 MeV cyclotron of the Bern University Hospital (Inselspital). We recorded visible scintillation light generated by proton irradiation in the soda-lime and fused quartz samples. We also investigated the darkening of these three glasses and observed radiation-induced colour centres in the soda-lime glass sample. The optical transmission spectra of the samples were measured before and after irradiation. Reductions of 45%, 1% and 0.4% were observed for soda-lime glass, fused quartz and fused silica, respectively (with an associated error of 0.25%). We conclude that the best option for our specific application is the fused silica substrate, which will be the transparent anode for the next generation of the LaGEMPix detector.

physics.ins-det↗

arXiv2021

Double-crystal measurements at the CERN SPS

The UA9 setup, installed in the Super Proton Synchrotron (SPS) at CERN, was exploited for a proof of principle of the double-crystal scenario, proposed to measure the electric and the magnetic moments of short-lived baryons in a high-energy hadron collider, such as the Large Hadron Collider (LHC). Linear and angular actuators were used to position the crystals and establish the required beam configuration. Timepix detectors and high-sensitivity Beam Loss Monitors were exploited to observe the deflected beams. Linear and angular scans allowed exploring the particle interactions with the two crystals and recording their efficiency. The measured values of the beam trajectories, profiles and of the channeling efficiency agree with the results of a Monte-Carlo simulation.

physics.acc-ph↗

arXiv2019

Reduction of multiple scattering of high-energy positively charged particles during channeling in single crystals

We present the experimental observation of the reduction of multiple scattering of high-energy positively charged particles during channeling in single crystals. According to our measurements the rms angle of multiple scattering in the plane orthogonal to the plane of the channeling is less than half that for non-channeled particles moving in the same crystal. In the experiment we use focusing bent single crystals. Such crystals have a variable thickness in the direction of beam propagation. This allows us to measure rms angles of scattering as a function of thickness for channeled and non-channeled particles. The behaviour with thickness of non-channeled particles is in agreement with expectations whereas the behaviour of channeled particles has unexpected features. We give a semi-quantitative explanation of the observed effect.

physics.acc-ph↗

arXiv2019

Double-crystal setup measurements at the CERN SPS

In this paper, we discuss an experimental layout for the two-crystals scenario at the Super Proton Synchrotron (SPS) accelerator. The research focuses on a fixed target setup at the circulating machine in a frame of the Physics Beyond Colliders (PBC) project at CERN. The UA9 experiment at the SPS serves as a testbench for the proof of concept, which is planning to be projected onto the Large Hadron Collider (LHC) scale. The presented in the text configuration was used for the quantitative characterization of the deflected particle beam by a pair of bent silicon crystals. For the first time in the double-crystal configuration, a particle deflection efficiency by the second crystal of $0.188 \pm 3 \cdot 10^{-5}$ and $0.179 \pm 0.013$ was measured on the accelerator by means of the Timepix detector and Beam Loss Monitor (BLM) respectively. In this setup, a wide range angular scan allowed a possibility to \textit{in situ} investigate different crystal working regimes (channeling, volume reflection, etc.), and to measure a bent crystal torsion.

physics.acc-ph↗

arXiv2018

Results of the first user program on the Homogenous Thermal Neutron Source HOTNES (ENEA / INFN)

The HOmogeneous Thermal NEutron Source (HOTNES) is a new type of thermal neutron irradiation assembly developed by the ENEA-INFN collaboration. The facility is fully characterized in terms of neutron field and dosimetric quantities, by either computational and experimental methods. This paper reports the results of the first "HOTNES users program", carried out in 2016, and covering a variety of thermal neutron active detectors such as scintillators, solid-state, single crystal diamond and gaseous detectors.

nucl-ex↗

arXiv2017

Negative ion Time Projection Chamber operation with SF$_{6}$ at nearly atmospheric pressure

We present measurements of drift velocities and mobilities of some innovative negative ion gas mixtures at nearly atmospheric pressure based on SF$_{6}$ as electronegative capture agent and of pure SF$_{6}$ at various pressures, performed with the NITEC detector. NITEC is a Time Projection Chamber with 5 cm drift distance readout by a GEMPix, a triple thin GEMs coupled to a Quad-Timepix chip, directly sensitive to the deposited charge on each of the 55 $\times$ 55 $μ$m$^2$ pixel. Our results contribute to expanding the knowledge on the innovative use of SF$_{6}$ as negative ion gas and extend to triple thin GEMs the possibility of negative ion operation for the first time. Above all, our findings show the feasibility of negative ion operation with He:CF$_4$:SF$_{6}$ at 610 Torr, opening extremely interesting possibility for next generation directional Dark Matter detectors at 1 bar.

physics.ins-det↗

arXiv2017

Experimental results of crystal-assisted slow extraction at the SPS

The possibility of extracting highly energetic particles from the Super Proton Synchrotron (SPS) by means of silicon bent crystals has been explored since the 1990's. The channelling effect of a bent crystal can be used to strongly deflect primary protons and eject them from the synchrotron. Many studies and experiments have been carried out to investigate crystal channelling effects. The extraction of 120 and 270 GeV proton beams has already been demonstrated in the SPS with dedicated experiments located in the ring. Presently in the SPS, the UA9 experiment is performing studies to evaluate the possibility to use bent silicon crystals to steer particle beams in high energy accelerators. Recent studies on the feasibility of extraction from the SPS have been made using the UA9 infrastructure with a longer-term view of using crystals to help mitigate slow extraction induced activation of the SPS. In this paper, the possibility to eject particles into the extraction channel in LSS2 using the bent crystals already installed in the SPS is presented. Details of the concept, simulations and measurements carried out with beam are presented, before the outlook for the future is discussed.

physics.acc-ph↗

arXiv2013

Performance of the LHCb muon system

The performance of the LHCb Muon system and its stability across the full 2010 data taking with LHC running at ps = 7 TeV energy is studied. The optimization of the detector setting and the time calibration performed with the first collisions delivered by LHC is described. Particle rates, measured for the wide range of luminosities and beam operation conditions experienced during the run, are compared with the values expected from simulation. The space and time alignment of the detectors, chamber efficiency, time resolution and cluster size are evaluated. The detector performance is found to be as expected from specifications or better. Notably the overall efficiency is well above the design requirements

physics.ins-det↗

arXiv2011

The UA9 experimental layout

The UA9 experimental equipment was installed in the CERN-SPS in March '09 with the aim of investigating crystal assisted collimation in coasting mode. Its basic layout comprises silicon bent crystals acting as primary collimators mounted inside two vacuum vessels. A movable 60 cm long block of tungsten located downstream at about 90 degrees phase advance intercepts the deflected beam. Scintillators, Gas Electron Multiplier chambers and other beam loss monitors measure nuclear loss rates induced by the interaction of the beam halo in the crystal. Roman pots are installed in the path of the deflected particles and are equipped with a Medipix detector to reconstruct the transverse distribution of the impinging beam. Finally UA9 takes advantage of an LHC-collimator prototype installed close to the Roman pot to help in setting the beam conditions and to analyze the efficiency to deflect the beam. This paper describes in details the hardware installed to study the crystal collimation during 2010.

physics.acc-ph↗

arXiv2011

Measurement of sigma(e+ e- -> pi+ pi-) from threshold to 0.85 GeV^2 using Initial State Radiation with the KLOE detector

We have measured the cross section of the radiative process e+e- -> pi+pi-gamma with the KLOE detector at the Frascati phi-factory DAPHNE, from events taken at a CM energy W=1 GeV. Initial state radiation allows us to obtain the cross section for e+e- -> pi+pi-, the pion form factor |F_pi|^2 and the dipion contribution to the muon magnetic moment anomaly, Delta a_mu^{pipi} = (478.5+-2.0_{stat}+-5.0_{syst}+-4.5_{th}) x 10^{-10} in the range 0.1 < M_{pipi}^2 < 0.85 GeV^2, where the theoretical error includes a SU(3) ChPT estimate of the uncertainty on photon radiation from the final pions. The discrepancy between the Standard Model evaluation of a_mu and the value measured by the Muon g-2 collaboration at BNL is confirmed.

hep-ex↗