Low-energy scattering data for oxygen

A survey of literature data of the scattering lengths of oxygen is performed, and these values are compared to low-energy precise total cross-section data. To check the quality of the data and the correctness of the relation between coherent scattering lengths and low-energy total cross-sections the situation is examined first for carbon. A value and uncertainty for the coherent scattering length of oxygen is recommended for use in future evaluations of 16O. This coherent scattering length is fully consistent with the high-precision, low-energy total cross-section data. The consistency requires the use of a larger uncertainty than claimed in the most accurate cross-section papers. This larger uncertainty is nevertheless very small and well within the requirements of applications of this cross-section. The recommended value is bc(16O) = 5.816 +/- 0.015 fm and the associated total cross-section for the neutron-energy range 0.5 to 2 000 eV is 3.765 +/- 0.025 b. The stated uncertainties are one standard deviation total uncertainty.JRC.D.4-Standards for Nuclear Safety, Security and Safeguard