The γsf method - determination of radiative neutron capture cross sections for unstable nuclei

An indirect method of determining radiative neutron-capture cross sections for unstable nuclei which we refer to as the γ-ray strength function (γSF) method is outlined and applied to Zr and Sn isotopes. Photoneutron cross sections for 91,92,94,96Zr and 117,116Sn near neutron threshold show the presence of extra γ-ray strengths known as giant M1 and pygmy E1 resonances on top of the low- energy γSF of GDR. Based on the γSF method, we present (n,γ) cross sections for two radioactive nuclei, a long-lived fission product, 93Zr with T1/2 = 1.5 × 106 y and an s-process branching point nucleus, 95Zr with T1/2 = 64.0 d.SCOPUS: ar.j