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Comparison of 14 MeV isomer production of {sup 178m2}Hf and {sup 179m2}Hf using Feshbach-Kerman-Koonin and exciton preequilibrium models

Conference ·
OSTI ID:10104062
 [1];  [2]
  1. Lawrence Livermore National Lab., CA (United States)
  2. Los Alamos National Lab., NM (United States)

The {sup 178m2}Hf(16+) isomeric state has a 31-yr half life and could pose serious radioactive problems in nuclear fusion reactors if its production in 14 MeV neutron-induced reactions is significant. We present statistical/preequilibrium model calculations for the production of this isomer in the {sup 179}Hf(n, 2n) {sup 178m2}Hf reaction, as well as the 25-days 12.5{sup {minus}} isomer in the {sup 179}Hf(n,n{prime}){sup 179m2}Hf reaction, using two different preequilibrium models: the exciton model and the Feshbach-Kerman-Koonin (FKK) theory. Our calculations which use the exciton model agree well with measurements, but those with the FKK theory underestimate measurements. Our calculations axe the first to probe angular momentum transfer effects in the FKK theory and suggest that, as it is presently applied, high spin-transfer reactions are underestimated. We suggest modifications to the FKK statistical averaging procedure which may result in an improved agreement with experiment.

Research Organization:
Los Alamos National Lab., NM (United States)
Sponsoring Organization:
USDOE, Washington, DC (United States)
DOE Contract Number:
W-7405-ENG-36
OSTI ID:
10104062
Report Number(s):
LA-UR--93-3632; CONF-940459--2; ON: DE94002640
Country of Publication:
United States
Language:
English