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Nucleosynthesis in the νp-process occurs in regions of slightly proton-rich nuclei in the neutrino-driven wind of core-collapse supernovae. The process proceeds via a sequence of (p,γ) and (n,p) reactions, and depending on the conditions, may produce elements between Ni and Sn. Recent studies show that a few key (n,p) reactions regulate the efficiency of the neutrino-p process (νp-process). We performed a study of one of such (n,p) reactions via the measurement of the reverse (p,n) in inverse kinematics with SECAR at NSCL/FRIB.Such proton-induced reaction measurements are particularly challenging, as the recoils and the unreacted projectiles have nearly identical masses. An appropriate separation level can be achieved with SECAR, and along with the incoincidence detection of neutrons these measurements become attainable. The preparation of the SECAR system for accommodating its first (p,n) reaction measurement, including the development of alternative ion beam optics, and the setup of the in-coincidence neutron detection, along with discussion on preliminary results from the p(58Fe,n)58Co reaction measurement are presented and discussed.

The formation of nuclei in slightly proton-rich regions of the neutrino-driven wind of core-collapse supernovae could be attributed to the neutrino-p process (νp-process). As it proceeds via a sequence of (p,γ) and (n,p) reactions, it may produce elements in the range of Ni and Sn, considering adequate conditions. Recent studies identify a number of decisive (n,p) reactions that control the efficiency of the νp-process. The study of one such (n,p) reaction via the measurement of the reverse (p,n) in inverse kinematics was performed with SECAR at NSCL/FRIB. Proton-induced reaction measurements, especially at the mass region of interest, are notably difficult since the recoils have nearly identical masses as the unreacted projectiles. Such measurements are feasible with the adequate separation level achieved with SECAR, and the in-coincidence neutron detection. Adjustments of the SECAR system for the first (p,n) reaction measurement included the development of new ion beam optics, and the installation of the neutron detection system. The aforementioned developments along with a discussion on the preliminary results of the p(58Fe,n)58Co reaction measurement are presented.

The 24Mg(p,α)21 Na transfer reaction has been previously studied for a spectroscopic study of 21Na [Cha et al., Phys. Rev. C 96, 025810 (2017)]. In this follow-up analysis, the proton decays of the excited states of the radionuclide 21Na, which were measured simultaneously, are reported. By investigating the coincidence between the reaction α-particles and decay protons, we were able to identify three groups of events that are associated with the energy levels in 20Ne. The 20Ne excitation energy plot was obtained as a result. The four lowest known energy levels in 20Ne (the ground state and excited states at Ex = 1.633, 4.247 and 4.966 MeV) were clearly observed.

Decay protons from excited states in $^{21}\mathrm{Na}$ populated through a previously reported $^{24}\mathrm{Mg}(p,\ensuremath{\alpha})^{21}\mathrm{Na}$ transfer reaction [Cha et al., Phys. Rev. C 96, 025810 (2017)] were analyzed to extract the proton branching ratios of the energy levels. By utilizing 31-MeV proton beams from the Holifield Radioactive Ion Beam Facility of Oak Ridge National Laboratory and isotopically enriched $^{24}\mathrm{Mg}$ solid targets, the decay protons were detected in coincidence with $\ensuremath{\alpha}$ particles from the $(p,\ensuremath{\alpha})$ reaction using a silicon strip detector array. Proton decay branching ratios of several $^{21}\mathrm{Na}$ levels were deduced for the $p0$ and $p1$ decay channels to the ground and first excited states in $^{20}\mathrm{Ne}$, respectively.

In atomic nuclei, the spin-orbit interaction originates from the coupling of the orbital motion of a nucleon with its intrinsic spin. Recent experimental and theoretical works have suggested a weakening of the spin-orbit interaction in neutron-rich nuclei far from stability. To study this phenomenon, we have investigated the spin-orbit energy splittings of single-hole and single-particle valence neutron orbits of 132Sn. The spectroscopic strength of single-hole states in 131Sn was determined from the measured differential cross sections of the tritons from the neutron-removing 132Sn(d, t)131Sn reaction, which was studied in inverse kinematics at the Holifield Radioactive Ion Beam Facility at Oak Ridge National Laboratory. The spectroscopic factors of the lowest 3/2+, 1/2+ and 5/2+ states were found to be consistent with their maximal values of (2j+1), confirming the robust N=82 shell closure at 132Sn. We compared the spin-orbit splitting of neutron single-hole states in 131Sn to those of single-particle states in 133Sn determined in a recent measurement of the 132Sn(d, p)133Sn reaction. We found a significant reduction of the energy splitting of the weakly bound 3p orbits compared to the well-bound 2d orbits, and that all the observed energy splittings can be reproduced remarkably well by calculations using a one-body spin-orbit interaction and a Woods–Saxon potential of standard radius and diffuseness. The observed reduction of spin-orbit splitting can be explained by the extended radial wavefunctions of the weakly bound orbits, without invoking a weakening of the spin-orbit strength. Keywords: Nuclear structure, Spin-orbit interaction, Transfer reactions, Doubly-magic nuclei, Shell model

Proton-and alpha-capture reactions on unstable proton-rich nuclei power astrophysical explosions like novae and X-ray bursts. Direct measurements of these reactions are crucial for understanding the mechanisms behind these explosions and the nucleosynthesis at such sites. The recoil mass separator, SECAR (SEparator for CApture Reactions) at the National Superconducting Cyclotron Laboratory (NSCL) and the Facility for Rare Isotope Beams (FRIB), has been designed with the required sensitivity to study (p,γ) and (α,γ) reactions, directly at astrophysical energies in inverse kinematics, with radioactive beams of masses up to about A = 65. The complete SECAR system, including two Wien Filters for high mass resolution, has been installed at Michigan State University and is currently being commissioned. The present article introduces the SECAR concept, its scientific goals, and provides an update of the current status of the project.

Due to its importance as an astronomical observable in core-collapse supernovae (CCSNe), the reactions producing and destroying $^{44}\mathrm{Ti}$ must be well constrained. Generally, statistical model calculations such as Hauser-Feshbach are employed when experimental cross sections are not available, but the variation in such adopted rates can be large. Here, data from the literature is compared with statistical model calculations of the $^{44}\mathrm{Ti}(\ensuremath{\alpha},p)^{47}\mathrm{V}$ reaction cross section and used to constrain the possible reaction rate variation over the temperatures relevant to CCSNe. Suggestions for targeted future measurements are given.

Precise antineutrino measurements are very sensitive to proper background characterization. We present an improved measurement of the $^{13}\mathrm{C}(\ensuremath{\alpha},n)^{16}\mathrm{O}$ reaction cross section which constitutes significant background for large $\overline{\ensuremath{\nu}}$ detectors. We greatly improve the precision and accuracy by utilizing a setup that is sensitive to the neutron energies while making measurements of the excited state transitions via secondary $\ensuremath{\gamma}$-ray detection. Our results shows a 54% reduction in the background contributions from the $^{16}\mathrm{O}({3}^{\ensuremath{-}},6.13\text{ }\mathrm{MeV})$ state used in the KamLAND analysis.

The $^{7}\mathrm{Li}(\ensuremath{\gamma},t)^{4}\mathrm{He}$ ground state cross section was measured for the first time using monoenergetic $\ensuremath{\gamma}$ rays with energies between 4.4 and 10 MeV at the High Intensity Gamma-ray Source. The reaction is important for the primordial Li problem and for testing our understanding of the mirror $\ensuremath{\alpha}$-capture reactions $^{3}\mathrm{H}(\ensuremath{\alpha},\ensuremath{\gamma})^{7}\mathrm{Li}$ and $^{3}\mathrm{He}(\ensuremath{\alpha},\ensuremath{\gamma})^{7}\mathrm{Be}$. Although over the last 30 years most measurements of the $^{3}\mathrm{H}(\ensuremath{\alpha},\ensuremath{\gamma})^{7}\mathrm{Li}$ reaction have concentrated in an energy range below ${E}_{\ensuremath{\gamma}}=3.65$ MeV, measurements at higher energies could potentially restrict the extrapolation to astrophysically important energies. The experimental arrangement for measuring the $^{7}\mathrm{Li}(\ensuremath{\gamma},t)^{4}\mathrm{He}$ reaction included a large-area silicon detector array and several beam characterization instruments. The experimental astrophysical $S$ factor of $^{3}\mathrm{H}(\ensuremath{\alpha},\ensuremath{\gamma})$ calculated from the present data was fitted using the $R$-matrix formalism. The results are in disagreement with previous experimental measurements in the same energy range but the extrapolated $S$ factor agrees with the potential model calculation and lower energy experimental data.

The $$^{22}\hbox {Na}(p,\gamma )^{23}\hbox {Mg}$$ reaction is responsible for destruction of the long-lived radionuclide $$^{22}\hbox {Na}$$ produced during nova explosions. Since the reaction proceeds through resonances from levels in $$^{23}\hbox {Mg}$$ above the proton threshold at 7.581 MeV, the properties of these levels such as excitation energies, spins, and parities are crucial ingredients to determine the $$^{22}\hbox {Na}(p,\gamma )^{23}\hbox {Mg}$$ reaction rate. Despite recent studies of these levels, their spins are not well constrained in many cases. We have measured the $$^{24}\mathrm{Mg}(p,d)^{23}\hbox {Mg}$$ transfer reaction to determine spectroscopic properties of these levels at the Holifield Radioactive Ion Beam Facility at Oak Ridge National Laboratory. The spin of the $$E_{x}$$ = 7.788 MeV level in $$^{23}\hbox {Mg}$$ is constrained to be $$J^{\pi }$$ = (3/2$$^+$$, 5/2$$^+$$) through the present work. The astrophysical $$^{22}\hbox {Na}(p,\gamma )^{23}\hbox {Mg}$$ reaction rate at nova temperatures is updated accordingly. Nova nucleosynthesis model calculations using the newly updated $$^{22}\hbox {Na}(p,\gamma )^{23}\hbox {Mg}$$ reaction rate shows that the final weighted abundance of the radionuclide $$^{22}\hbox {Na}$$ is increased by 42% compared to that obtained by using the previous $$^{22}\hbox {Na}(p,\gamma )^{23}\hbox {Mg}$$ reaction rate of Sallaska et al. for a 1.35 $$M_{\odot }$$ ONeMg white dwarf.

Results are presented from the first neutron-transfer measurement on $^{80}\mathrm{Ge}$ using an exotic beam from the Holifield Radioactive Ion Beam Facility at Oak Ridge National Laboratory. Newly measured spins and spectroscopic factors of low-lying states of $^{81}\mathrm{Ge}$ are determined, and the neutron capture cross section on $^{80}\mathrm{Ge}$ was calculated in a direct-semidirect model to provide a more realistic ($n,\ensuremath{\gamma}$) reaction rate for $r$-process simulations. Furthermore, a region of shape coexistence around $N\ensuremath{\approx}50$ is confirmed and implications for the magic nature of $^{78}\mathrm{Ni}$ are discussed.

Certain astrophysical environments such as thermonuclear outbursts on accreting neutron stars (Type-I X-ray bursts) are hot enough to allow for breakout from the Hot CNO hydrogen burning cycles to the rapid proton capture (rp) process. An important breakout reaction sequence is 15O(α,γ)19Ne(p,γ)20Na and the 19Ne(p,γ)20Na reaction rate is expected to be dominated by a single resonance at 457 keV above the proton threshold in 20Na. The resonance strength and, hence, reaction rate depends strongly on whether this 20Na state at an excitation energy of 2647 keV has spin and parity of 1 + or 3 + . Previous 20Mg ( J π = 0 + ) β + decay experiments have relied almost entirely on searches for β-delayed proton emission from this resonance in 20Na to limit the log ft value and, hence, J π . However there is a non-negligible γ-ray branch expected that must also be limited experimentally to determine the log ft value and constrain J π . We have measured the β-delayed γ decay of 20Mg to complement previous β-delayed proton decay work and provide the first complete limit based on all energetically allowed decay channels through the 2647 keV state. Our limit confirms that a 1 + assignment for this state is highly unlikely.

The structure of nuclei provides insight into astrophysical reaction rates that are difficult to measure directly. These studies are often performed with transfer reactions and β-decay measurements. These experiments benefit from particle-γ coincidence measurements which provide information beyond that of particle detection alone. The Hybrid Array of Gamma Ray Detectors (HAGRiD) of LaBr3(Ce) scintillators has been designed with this purpose in mind. The design of the array permits it to be coupled with particle detector systems, such as the Oak Ridge Rutgers University Barrel Array (ORRUBA) of silicon detectors and the Versatile Array of Neutron Detectors at Low Energy (VANDLE). It is also designed to operate with the Jet Experiments in Nuclear Structure and Astrophysics (JENSA) advanced target system. HAGRiD’s design avoids compromising the charged-particle angular resolution due to compact geometries which are often used to increase the γ efficiency in other systems. First experiments with HAGRiD coupled to VANDLE as well as ORRUBA and JENSA are discussed.

A recoil mass separator SECAR has been designed for the purpose of studying low-energy ( p , γ ) and ( α , γ ) reactions in inverse kinematics with radioactive beams for masses up to about A = 65. Their reaction rates are of importance for our understanding of the energy production and nucleosynthesis during explosive hydrogen and helium burning. The radiative capture reactions take place in a windowless hydrogen or He gas target at the entrance of the separator, which consists of four Sections . The first Section selects the charge state of the recoils. The second and third Sections contain Wien Filters providing high mass resolving power to separate efficiently the intense beam from the few reaction products. In the following fourth Section , the reaction products are guided into a detector system capable of position, angle and time-of-flight measurements. In order to accept the complete kinematic cone of recoil particles including multiple scattering in the target in the center of mass energy range of 0.2 MeV to 3.0 MeV, the system must have a large polar angle acceptance of ± 25 mrad. This requires a careful minimization of higher order aberrations. The present system will be installed at the NSCL ReA3 accelerator and will be used with the much higher beam intensities of the FRIB facility when it becomes available.

Explosive stellar environments are sometimes driven by nuclear reactions on short-lived, radioactive nuclei. These reactions often drive the stellar explosion, alter the observable light curves produced, and dictate the final abundances of the isotopes created. Unfortunately, many reaction rates at stellar temperatures cannot be directly measured in the laboratory, due to the physical limitations of ultra-low cross sections and high background rates. An additional complication arises because many of the important reactions involve radioactive nuclei which have lifetimes too short to be made into a target. As such, direct reactions require very intense and pure beams of exotic nuclei. Indirect approaches with both stable and radioactive beams can, however, provide crucial information on the nuclei involved in these astrophysical reactions. A major development toward both direct and indirect studies of nuclear reactions rates is the commissioning of the Jet Experiments in Nuclear Structure and Astrophysics (JENSA) supersonic gas jet target. The JENSA system provides a pure, homogeneous, highly localized, dense, and robust gaseous target for radioactive ion beam studies. Charged-particle reactions measurements made with gas jet targets can be cleaner and display better resolution than with traditional targets. With the availability of pure and localized gas jet targets in combination with developments in exotic radioactive ion beams and next-generation detector systems, the range of reaction studies that are experimentally possible is vastly expanded. Various representative cases will be discussed.

An improved method for preparation of self-supporting deuterated polyethylene targets using solvent casting technique is described. The improved method provides recommendations for solvent heating, solvent casting of the thin film, and subsequent heating treatment which is shown to greatly enhance the overall target strength and durability as needed for accelerator experiments. A detailed characterization using both optical and electron microscopy, differential scanning calorimetry, and Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy demonstrates the improvements using the post-casting heating treatment. The effects of heavy ion-induced target degradation and recommendations for use under these conditions is also discussed.

GODDESS is a coupling of the charged-particle detection system ORRUBA to the gamma-ray detector array Gammasphere. This coupling has been developed in order to facilitate the high-resolution measurement of direct reactions in normal and inverse kinematics with stable and radioactive beams. GODDESS has been commissioned using a beam of 134 Xe at 10 MeV/A, in a campaign of stable beam measurements. The measurement demonstrates the capabilities of GODDESS under radioactive beam conditions, and provides the first data on the single-neutron states in 135 Xe, including previously unobserved states based on the orbitals above the N=82 shell closure.

The 14O(α,p)17F reaction is an important trigger reaction to the α-p process in X-ray bursts. The most stringent experimental constraints on its astrophysical rate come from measurements of the time-inverse reaction, 17F(p,α)14O. Previous studies of this inverse reaction have sufficiently characterized the high-energy dependence of the cross section but there are still significant uncertainties at lower energies. A new measurement of the 17F(p,α)14O cross section is underway at the Twin Solenoid (TwinSol) facility at the University of Notre Dame using an in-flight secondary 17F beam. The initial results are promising but improvements are needed to complete the measurement. The initial data and plans for an improved measurement are presented in this manuscript.

Background: The $^{15}\mathrm{O}(\ensuremath{\alpha},\ensuremath{\gamma})^{19}\mathrm{Ne}$ bottleneck reaction in Type I x-ray bursts is the most important thermonuclear reaction rate to constrain experimentally, to improve the accuracy of burst light-curve simulations. A proposed technique to determine the thermonuclear rate of this reaction employs the $^{20}\mathrm{Mg}(\ensuremath{\beta}p\ensuremath{\alpha})^{15}\mathrm{O}$ decay sequence. The key $^{15}\mathrm{O}(\ensuremath{\alpha},\ensuremath{\gamma})^{19}\mathrm{Ne}$ resonance at an excitation of 4.03 MeV is now known to be fed in $^{20}\mathrm{Mg}(\ensuremath{\beta}p\ensuremath{\gamma})^{19}\mathrm{Ne}$; however, the energies of the protons feeding the 4.03 MeV state are unknown. Knowledge of the proton energies will facilitate future $^{20}\mathrm{Mg}(\ensuremath{\beta}p\ensuremath{\alpha})^{15}\mathrm{O}$ measurements.Purpose: To determine the energy of the proton transition feeding the 4.03 MeV state in $^{19}\mathrm{Ne}$.Method: A fast beam of $^{20}\mathrm{Mg}$ was implanted into a plastic scintillator, which was used to detect $\ensuremath{\beta}$ particles. 16 high purity germanium detectors were used to detect $\ensuremath{\gamma}$ rays emitted following $\ensuremath{\beta}p$ decay. A Monte Carlo method was used to simulate the Doppler broadening of $^{19}\mathrm{Ne}\phantom{\rule{4pt}{0ex}}\ensuremath{\gamma}$-ray lines and compare to the experimental data.Results: The center of mass energy between the proton and $^{19}\mathrm{Ne}$, feeding the 4.03 MeV state, is measured to be $1.21{}_{\ensuremath{-}0.22}^{+0.25}\phantom{\rule{0.16em}{0ex}}\mathrm{MeV}$, corresponding to a $^{20}\mathrm{Na}$ excitation energy of $7.44{}_{\ensuremath{-}0.22}^{+0.25}\phantom{\rule{0.16em}{0ex}}\mathrm{MeV}$. Absolute feeding intensities and $\ensuremath{\gamma}$-decay branching ratios of $^{19}\mathrm{Ne}$ states were determined including the 1615 keV state, which has not been observed before in this decay. A new $\ensuremath{\gamma}$ decay branch from the 1536 keV state in $^{19}\mathrm{Ne}$ to the ground state is reported. The lifetime of the 1507 keV state in $^{19}\mathrm{Ne}$ is measured to be $4.3{}_{\ensuremath{-}1.1}^{+1.3}$ ps resolving discrepancies in the literature. Conflicting $^{20}\mathrm{Mg}(\ensuremath{\beta}p$) decay schemes in published literature are clarified.Conclusions: The utility of this Doppler broadening technique to provide information on $\ensuremath{\beta}$-delayed nucleon emission and excited-state lifetimes has been further demonstrated. In particular, knowledge of the proton energies feeding the 4.03 MeV $^{19}\mathrm{Ne}$ state in $^{20}\mathrm{Mg}\phantom{\rule{4pt}{0ex}}\ensuremath{\beta}$ decay will facilitate future measurements of the $\ensuremath{\alpha}$-particle branching ratio.

The astrophysical $S$-factor for the radiative proton capture reaction on $^7$Be ($S_{17}$) at low energies is affected by the $s$-wave scattering lengths. We report the measurement of elastic and inelastic scattering cross sections for the $^7$Be+p system in the center-of-mass energy range 0.474 - 2.740 MeV and center-of-mass angular range of 70$^\circ$- 150$^\circ$. A radioactive $^7$Be beam produced at Oak Ridge National Laboratory's (ORNL) Holifield Radioactive Ion Beam Facility was accelerated and bombarded a thin polypropylene (CH$_{2}$)$_\text n$ target. Scattered ions were detected in the segmented Silicon Detector Array. Using an $\textit{R}$-matrix analysis of ORNL and Louvain-la-Neuve cross section data, the $s$-wave scattering lengths for channel spins 1 and 2 were determined to be 17.34$^{+1.11}_{-1.33}$ and -3.18$^{+0.55}_{-0.50}$ fm, respectively. The uncertainty in the $s$-wave scattering lengths reported in this work is smaller by a factor of 5-8 compared to the previous measurement, which may reduce the overall uncertainty in $S_{17}$ at zero energy. The level structure of $^8$B is discussed based upon the results from this work. Evidence for the existence of 0$^+$ and 2$^+$ levels in $^8$B at 1.9 and 2.21 MeV, respectively, is observed.

Half of the elements heavier than iron are believed to be produced through the rapid neutron-capture process ($r$ process). The astrophysical environment(s) where the $r$ process occurs remains an open question, even after recent observations of neutron-star mergers and the associated kilonova. Features in the abundance pattern of $r$-process ashes may provide critical insight for distinguishing contributions from different possible sites, including neutron-star mergers and core-collapse supernovae. In particular, the largely unknown neutron-capture reaction rates on neutron-rich unstable nuclei near $^{132}\mathrm{Sn}$ could have a significant impact on the final $r$-process abundances. To better determine these neutron-capture rates, the $(d,p)$ reaction has been measured in inverse kinematics using radioactive ion beams of $^{126}\mathrm{Sn}$ and $^{128}\mathrm{Sn}$ and a stable beam of $^{124}\mathrm{Sn}$ interacting with a ${({\mathrm{CD}}_{2})}_{n}$ target. An array of position-sensitive silicon strip detectors, including the Super Oak Ridge Rutgers University Barrel Array, was used to detect light reaction products. In addition to the present measurements, previous measurements of $^{130,132}\mathrm{Sn}(d,p)$ were reanalyzed using state-of-the-art reaction theory to extract a consistent set of spectroscopic factors for $(d,p)$ reactions on even tin nuclei between the heaviest stable isotope $^{124}\mathrm{Sn}$ and doubly magic $^{132}\mathrm{Sn}$. The spectroscopic information was used to calculate direct-semidirect $(n,\ensuremath{\gamma})$ cross sections, which will serve as important input for $r$-process abundance calculations.

The $^{15}$O($\alpha$,$\gamma$)$^{19}$Ne reaction is responsible for breakout from the hot CNO cycle in Type I x-ray bursts. Understanding the properties of resonances between $E_x = 4$ and 5 MeV in $^{19}$Ne is crucial in the calculation of this reaction rate. The spins and parities of these states are well known, with the exception of the 4.14- and 4.20-MeV states, which have adopted spin-parities of 9/2$^-$ and 7/2$^-$, respectively. Gamma-ray transitions from these states were studied using triton-$\gamma$-$\gamma$ coincidences from the $^{19}$F($^{3}$He,$t\gamma$)$^{19}$Ne reaction measured with GODDESS (Gammasphere ORRUBA Dual Detectors for Experimental Structure Studies) at Argonne National Laboratory. The observed transitions from the 4.14- and 4.20-MeV states provide strong evidence that the $J^\pi$ values are actually 7/2$^-$ and 9/2$^-$, respectively. These assignments are consistent with the values in the $^{19}$F mirror nucleus and in contrast to previously accepted assignments.

A direct test of nova explosion models comes from the observation of γ rays created in the decay of radioactive isotopes produced in the nova. One such isotope, 18F, is believed to be the main source of observable γ rays at and below 511 keV. The main destruction mechanism of 18F is thought to be the 18F(p,α)15O reaction, and uncertainties in the reaction rate arise from uncertainties in the energies, spins, and parities of the nuclear levels in 19Ne above the 18F+p threshold. To measure the properties of these levels, the 19F(3He,t)19Ne∗(γ) reaction was studied at Argonne National Laboratory and the Nuclear Science Laboratory at the University of Notre Dame.A direct test of nova explosion models comes from the observation of γ rays created in the decay of radioactive isotopes produced in the nova. One such isotope, 18F, is believed to be the main source of observable γ rays at and below 511 keV. The main destruction mechanism of 18F is thought to be the 18F(p,α)15O reaction, and uncertainties in the reaction rate arise from uncertainties in the energies, spins, and parities of the nuclear levels in 19Ne above the 18F+p threshold. To measure the properties of these levels, the 19F(3He,t)19Ne∗(γ) reaction was studied at Argonne National Laboratory and the Nuclear Science Laboratory at the University of Notre Dame.

In radioactive ion beam experiments, beams containing isomers can be of interest in probing nuclear structure and informing astrophysical reaction rates. While the production of mixed in-flight ground state and isomer beams using nucleon transfer can be generally understood through distorted wave Born approximation methodology, low-spin isomer production via fast fragmentation is relatively unstudied. To attain a practical understanding of low-spin isomer production using fast fragmentation beams, a test case of $^{38}\mathrm{K}/^{38m}\mathrm{K}$ was studied at the National Superconducting Cyclotron Laboratory's ReAccelerated Beam facility. Starting from lise++ predictions, the fragmentation momentum distribution was sampled to determine isomer production. In addition, the effects of the gas stopper gradient and charge breeding times were examined. In the case of $^{38}\mathrm{K}$, isomer production peaks at $\ensuremath{\sim}57%$. This maximum is observed just off the lise++ predicted optimum magnetic rigidity, with only small losses in beam intensity within a few percent of this optimum rigidity setting. Control of the isomer fraction was also achieved through the modification of charge breeding times. Fast fragmentation appears to be a feasible method for production of low-spin isomeric beams, but additional study is necessary to better describe the mechanism involved.

The performance of the maximum likelihood expectation maximization method for unfolding neutron energy spectra using deuterated liquid scintillator is evaluated for future utilization with rare isotope beams. High-resolution neutron energy spectra as well as the detector response matrix were measured at the Edwards Accelerator Laboratory at Ohio University. Maximum-likelihood expectation maximization (MLEM) unfolded neutron spectra are compared with spectra from neutron time-of-flight. The effects of the MLEM stopping criteria and spectrum statistics are also investigated.

The astrophysical F 18 ( p , α ) O 15 rate determines, in large part, the extent to which the observable radioisotope 18 F is produced in novae. This rate, however, has been extremely uncertain owing to the unknown properties of a strong subthreshold resonance and its possible interference with higher-lying resonances. The new Jet Experiments in Nuclear Structure and Astrophysics (JENSA) gas-jet target has been used for the first time to determine the spin of this important resonance and significantly reduce uncertainties in the F 18 ( p , α ) O 15 rate.

An array consisting of 12 deuterated organic liquid scintillator detectors for fast-neutron spectroscopy was designed and built at Oak Ridge National Laboratory (ORNL). This versatile array is designed for measurements with low reaction yields, such as those performed with rare isotope beams, as well as at high current DC facilities used for underground nuclear astrophysics research. Because some measurements also offer limited, or no, additional timing information, the ORNL Deuterated Spectroscopic Array (ODeSA) was optimized to utilize spectrum unfolding to extract neutron energy spectra . This array was characterized for n/ γ pulse shape discrimination, light response, resolution, and intrinsic efficiency by using the neutron time-of-flight tunnel at the Edwards Accelerator Laboratory at Ohio University. Results and future plans are discussed.

Background: $^{32}\mathrm{Cl}$ is a neutron-deficient isotope with a $\ensuremath{\beta}$-decay half-life of 298 ms and a spin and parity of ${J}^{\ensuremath{\pi}}={1}^{+}$. Previous measurements of $^{32}\mathrm{Cl} \ensuremath{\beta}$-delayed $\ensuremath{\gamma}$ rays have yielded a $\ensuremath{\beta}$-decay scheme with twelve $\ensuremath{\beta}$-decay transitions, contributing to studies of nuclear structure and fundamental symmetries. Those experiments have been limited to the observation of $^{32}\mathrm{S}$ states with ${J}^{\ensuremath{\pi}}={0}^{+},{1}^{+},{2}^{+}$.Purpose: Our goal is to search for new $\ensuremath{\beta}$-delayed $\ensuremath{\gamma}$ rays and $\ensuremath{\beta}$-decay transitions of $^{32}\mathrm{Cl}$ to $^{32}\mathrm{S}$.Methods: A measurement of $^{32}\mathrm{Cl} \ensuremath{\beta}$-delayed $\ensuremath{\gamma}$ decay has been performed using the Clovershare array of high-purity germanium detectors at the National Superconducting Cyclotron Laboratory.Results: By acquiring the highest-statistics $^{32}\mathrm{Cl} \ensuremath{\beta}$-delayed $\ensuremath{\gamma}$-ray spectrum to date and exploiting a new sensitivity to $\ensuremath{\gamma}\ensuremath{-}\ensuremath{\gamma}$ coincidences, this experiment has enabled the observation of nine previously unobserved $\ensuremath{\beta}$-delayed $\ensuremath{\gamma}$-ray transitions, leading to the inference of five $\ensuremath{\beta}$-decay transitions never before observed in $^{32}\mathrm{Cl} \ensuremath{\beta}$-delayed $\ensuremath{\gamma}$ decay. The set of observed states includes negative-parity states for the first time. By combining the new information with data from previous work, the lifetimes and partial widths of the 8861- and 9650-keV states of $^{32}\mathrm{S}$ have been determined. In addition, the $^{31}\mathrm{P}(p,\ensuremath{\alpha})\phantom{\rule{0.16em}{0ex}}^{28}\mathrm{Si}$ resonance strength of the 9650-keV state has been limited to $\ensuremath{\omega}\ensuremath{\gamma}l9.8$ meV, which is an improvement over direct measurements.Conclusion: An enhanced decay scheme has been constructed. Most of the excited bound $^{32}\mathrm{S}$ states that would correspond to allowed and first-forbidden $\ensuremath{\beta}$-decay transitions have been observed, demonstrating the potential of $\ensuremath{\beta}$-decay experiments to approach complete spectroscopy measurements at the next generation of radioactive beam facilities. The observed positive-parity levels are well matched by $sd$ shell-model calculations.

The JENSA gas-jet target was designed for experiments with radioactive beams provided by the rare isotope re-accelerator ReA3 at the National Superconducting Cyclotron Laboratory. The gas jet will be the main target for the Separator for Capture Reactions SECAR at the Facility for Rare Isotope Beams on the campus of Michigan State University, USA. In this work, we describe the advantages of a gas-jet target, detail the current recirculating gas system, and report recent measurements of helium jet thicknesses of up to about $10^{19}$ atoms/cm$^2$. Finally a comparison with other supersonic gas-jet targets is presented., Comment: Preprint, submitted to Nuclear Instruments and Methods in Physics Research A. $\copyright$ 2018. This manuscript version is made available under the CC-BY-NC-ND 4.0 license

The Jet Experiments in Nuclear Structure and Astrophysics (JENSA) gas-jet target was used to perform spectroscopic studies of $^{20}\mathrm{Ne}+p$ reactions. Levels in $^{19}\mathrm{Ne}$ were probed via the $^{20}\mathrm{Ne}(p,d)^{19}\mathrm{Ne}$ reaction to constrain the astrophysical rate of the $^{18}\mathrm{F}(p,\ensuremath{\alpha})^{15}\mathrm{O}$ reaction. Additionally, the first spectroscopic study of the $^{20}\mathrm{Ne}(p,^{3}\mathrm{He})^{18}\mathrm{F}$ reaction was performed. Angular distribution data were used to determine or confirm the spins of several previously observed levels, and the existence of a strong subthreshold $^{18}\mathrm{F}(p,\ensuremath{\alpha})^{15}\mathrm{O}$ resonance was verified.

Classical novae are common thermonuclear explosions in the Milky Way galaxy, occurring on the surfaces of white-dwarf stars that are accreting hydrogen-rich material from companion stars. Nucleosynthesis in classical novae depends on radiative proton-capture reaction rates on radioactive nuclides. Many of these reactions cannot be measured directly at current accelerator facilities due to the lack of intense, high-quality, radioactive-ion beams at the relevant energies. Since most of these reactions proceed via resonant capture, their rates can be determined indirectly by measuring the properties of the resonances. At the National Superconducting Cyclotron Laboratory, we have used the β-delayed γ decays of 26 P and 31 Cl to populate resonances in 26 Si and 31 S and study the radiative proton captures on 25 Al and 30 P, respectively. These were two out of the three most important nuclear-physics uncertainties associated with the observable products of nova nucleosynthesis. The 26 P experiment has enabled a more accurate estimate of the nova contribution to the long-lived Galactic 26 Al detected with γ-ray telescopes. The 31 Cl experiment, currently under analysis, will calibrate potential nova thermometers and mixing meters based on elemental abundance ratios, and facilitate the identification of pre-solar nova grain candidates found in primitive meteorites based on isotopic ratios.

To take full advantage of advanced exotic beam facilities, target technology must also be advanced. Particularly important to the study of astrophysical reaction rates is the creation of localized and dense targets of hydrogen and helium. The Jet Experiments in Nuclear Structure and Astrophysics (JENSA) gas-jet target has been constructed for this purpose. JENSA was constructed at Oak Ridge National Laboratory (ORNL) where it was tested and characterized, and has now moved to the ReA3 reaccelerated beam hall at the National Superconducting Cyclotron Laboratory (NSCL) at Michigan State University for use with radioactive beams.

A recoil separator SECAR has been designed to study radiative capture reactions relevant for the astrophysical rp-process in inverse kinematics for the Facility for Rare Isotope Beams (FRIB). We describe the design, layout, and ion optics of the recoil separator and present the status of the project.

The $^{15}\mathrm{O}(\ensuremath{\alpha},\ensuremath{\gamma})^{19}\mathrm{Ne}$ reaction is expected to trigger the initial path for breakout from the CNO hydrogen-burning cycles to the rapid proton capture $(rp)$ process in type I x-ray bursts on accreting neutron stars. The thermonuclear reaction rate has a major impact on models of type I x-ray burst observables and it depends on the small $\ensuremath{\alpha}$-particle branching ratio, ${\mathrm{\ensuremath{\Gamma}}}_{\ensuremath{\alpha}}/\mathrm{\ensuremath{\Gamma}}$, of the 4.03 MeV state in $^{19}\mathrm{Ne}$. Attempts to measure ${\mathrm{\ensuremath{\Gamma}}}_{\ensuremath{\alpha}}/\mathrm{\ensuremath{\Gamma}}$ by populating the 4.03 MeV state using nuclear reactions have only led to strong upper limits. In the present work, we report the first experimental evidence that the 4.03 MeV $^{19}\mathrm{Ne}$ state is populated in $^{20}\mathrm{Mg} \ensuremath{\beta}$-delayed proton emission. This new channel has the potential to provide the necessary sensitivity to detect a finite value of ${\mathrm{\ensuremath{\Gamma}}}_{\ensuremath{\alpha}}/\mathrm{\ensuremath{\Gamma}}$.

The $^{24}\mathrm{Mg}(p,\ensuremath{\alpha})^{21}\mathrm{Na}$ reaction was measured at the Holifield Radioactive Ion Beam Facility of the Oak Ridge National Laboratory to study the spectroscopy of the radionuclide $^{21}\mathrm{Na}$. A 31-MeV proton beam from the 25 MV tandem accelerator bombarded isotopically enriched $^{24}\mathrm{Mg}$ targets. Recoiling $^{4}\mathrm{He}$ particles were identified by an annular silicon strip detector array. Two energy levels at ${E}_{x}=6.594$ and 7.132 MeV were observed for the first time. By comparing the experimentally obtained angular distributions and distorted wave Born approximation calculations, the spins and parities of $^{21}\mathrm{Na}$ energy levels were constrained. The astrophysically-important $^{17}\mathrm{F}(\ensuremath{\alpha},p)^{20}\mathrm{Ne}$ reaction rate was also calculated for the first time using resonance parameters for 12 energy levels.

We report the independent experimental confirmation of an isomeric state in the proton drip-line nucleus $^{26}$P. The ${\gamma}$-ray energy and half-life determined are 164.4 $\pm$ 0.3 (sys) $\pm$ 0.2 (stat) keV and 104 $\pm$ 14 ns, respectively, which are in agreement with the previously reported values. These values are used to set a semi-empirical limit on the proton separation energy of $^{26}$P, with the conclusion that it can be bound or unbound., Comment: 5 pages, 3 figures

Of particular interest in astrophysics is the $^{34}\mathrm{S}(p,\ensuremath{\gamma})^{35}\mathrm{Cl}$ reaction, which serves as a stepping stone in thermonuclear runaway reaction chains during a nova explosion. Though the isotopes involved are all stable, the reaction rate of this significant step is not well known, due to a lack of experimental spectroscopic information on states within the Gamow window above the proton separation threshold of $^{35}\mathrm{Cl}$. Measurements of level spins and parities provide input for the calculation of resonance strengths, which ultimately determine the astrophysical reaction rate of the $^{34}\mathrm{S}(p,\ensuremath{\gamma})^{35}\mathrm{Cl}$ proton capture reaction. By performing the $^{37}\mathrm{Cl}(p,t)^{35}\mathrm{Cl}$ reaction in normal kinematics at the Holifield Radioactive Ion Beam Facility at Oak Ridge National Laboratory, we have conducted a study of the region of astrophysical interest in $^{35}\mathrm{Cl}$, and have made the first-ever constraint on the spin and parity assignment for a level at $6677\ifmmode\pm\else\textpm\fi{}15$ keV $({E}_{r}=306$ keV), inside the Gamow window for novae.

Background: Transfer reactions are a useful tool for studying nuclear structure, particularly in the regime of low level densities and strong single-particle strengths. In addition, transfer reactions can populate levels above particle decay thresholds, allowing for the possibility of studying the subsequent decays and furthering our understanding of the nuclei being probed. In particular, the decay of loosely bound nuclei such as $^{12}\mathrm{N}$ can help inform and improve structure models.Purpose: To learn about the decay of excited states in $^{12}\mathrm{N}$, to more generally inform nuclear structure models, particularly in the case of particle-unbound levels in low-mass systems which are within the reach of state-of-the-art ab initio calculations.Method: In this follow-up analysis of previously published data [Chipps et al. (JENSA Collaboration), Phys. Rev. C 92, 034325 (2015)], decay particles from excited states populated in $^{12}\mathrm{N}$ have been detected in coincidence with tritons from the $^{14}\mathrm{N}(p,t)^{12}\mathrm{N}$ transfer reaction. Specifically, decay protons from proton-unbound levels above $\ensuremath{\sim}2$ MeV excitation energy were observed by utilizing the Jet Experiments in Nuclear Structure and Astrophysics (JENSA) gas jet target.Results: Isotropic proton branching ratios for the $p0$ and $p1$ decay channels are calculated and decay particle spectra for the populated levels from $p0$, $p1$, and $p2$ decay are given.Conclusions: The current data from $^{14}\mathrm{N}(p,t)^{12}\mathrm{N}$ will help provide nuclear structure and decay information input to models in this mass region.

A new gas-filled ionization chamber for high count rate particle identification has been constructed and commissioned at the Holifield Radioactive Ion Beam Facility (HRIBF) at Oak Ridge National Laboratory (ORNL). To enhance the response time of the ionization chamber, a design utilizing a tilted entrance window and tilted electrodes was adopted, which is modified from an original design by Kimura et al. [1] . A maximum counting rate of ~ 700 , 000 particles per second has been achieved. The detector has been used for several radioactive beam measurements performed at the HRIBF.

Background: Measurements of $\ensuremath{\beta}$ decay provide important nuclear structure information that can be used to probe isospin asymmetries and inform nuclear astrophysics studies.Purpose: To measure the $\ensuremath{\beta}$-delayed $\ensuremath{\gamma}$ decay of $^{26}\text{P}$ and compare the results with previous experimental results and shell-model calculations.Method: A $^{26}\text{P}$ fast beam produced using nuclear fragmentation was implanted into a planar germanium detector. Its $\ensuremath{\beta}$-delayed $\ensuremath{\gamma}$-ray emission was measured with an array of 16 high-purity germanium detectors. Positrons emitted in the decay were detected in coincidence to reduce the background.Results: The absolute intensities of $^{26}\text{P}\phantom{\rule{4.pt}{0ex}}\ensuremath{\beta}$-delayed $\ensuremath{\gamma}$ rays were determined. A total of six new $\ensuremath{\beta}$-decay branches and 15 new $\ensuremath{\gamma}$-ray lines have been observed for the first time in $^{26}\text{P}\phantom{\rule{4.pt}{0ex}}\ensuremath{\beta}$ decay. A complete $\ensuremath{\beta}$-decay scheme was built for the allowed transitions to bound excited states of $^{26}\text{Si}$. $ft$ values and Gamow-Teller strengths were also determined for these transitions and compared with shell-model calculations and the mirror $\ensuremath{\beta}$ decay of $^{26}\text{Na}$, revealing significant mirror asymmetries.Conclusions: A very good agreement with theoretical predictions based on the USDB shell model is observed. The significant mirror asymmetry observed for the transition to the first excited state $(\ensuremath{\delta}=51(10)%)$ may be evidence for a proton halo in $^{26}\text{P}$.

The thermonuclear ^{30}P(p,γ)^{31}S reaction rate is critical for modeling the final elemental and isotopic abundances of ONe nova nucleosynthesis, which affect the calibration of proposed nova thermometers and the identification of presolar nova grains, respectively. Unfortunately, the rate of this reaction is essentially unconstrained experimentally, because the strengths of key ^{31}S proton capture resonance states are not known, largely due to uncertainties in their spins and parities. Using the β decay of ^{31}Cl, we have observed the β-delayed γ decay of a ^{31}S state at E_{x}=6390.2(7) keV, with a ^{30}P(p,γ)^{31}S resonance energy of E_{r}=259.3(8) keV, in the middle of the ^{30}P(p,γ)^{31}S Gamow window for peak nova temperatures. This state exhibits isospin mixing with the nearby isobaric analog state at E_{x}=6279.0(6) keV, giving it an unambiguous spin and parity of 3/2^{+} and making it an important l=0 resonance for proton capture on ^{30}P.

$^{26}\mathrm{Al}$ remains an intriguing target for observational $\ensuremath{\gamma}$-ray astronomy, thanks to its characteristic decay. The $^{25}\mathrm{Al}(p,\ensuremath{\gamma})^{26}\mathrm{Si}$ reaction is the crucial link in a sequence that bypasses the production of the observable $^{26}\mathrm{Al}^{g}$ in favor of the short-lived isomeric state; determining its astrophysical reaction rate across a range of stellar environments has been the focus of many studies. A reanalysis of previous work, utilizing recent improvements in excitation energies and ground state masses, is presented to reduce the ambiguities in the literature and provide focus to future measurements.