Cross sections for d-³H neutron interactions with samarium isotopes

Abstract

The cross sections for (n,x) reactions on samarium isotopes were measured at (d-T) neutron energies of 13.5 and 14.8 MeV with the activation technique. Samples were activated along with Nb and Al monitor foils to determine the incident neutron flux. Theoretical calculations of excitation functions were performed using the nuclear model codes TALYS-1.6 and EMPIRE-3.2 Malta with default parameters, at neutron energies varying from the reaction threshold to 20 MeV. The results were discussed and compared with experimental data found in the literature. At neutron energies 13.5 and 14.8 MeV, the cross sections of the 149 Sm(n,p) 149 Pm reaction are reported for the first time. The cross sections of the 150 Sm(n,p) 150 Pm, 144 Sm(n,p) 144 Pm, 152 Sm(n, ) 149 Nd and 144 Sm(n, ) 141 Nd reactions at different neutron energies reported in the present work can be added as new data in the nuclear databases.