A small sample method for investigation of the (n, n′γ) reaction

A technique has been developed which makes it possible to study (n, n′γ) experiments using very small scattering samples in a close geometry. Data are presented for a 3.147 g natural Fe target and a 6.960 g Sm2O3 target enriched to 99.54% in 154Sm. The results indicate that the method can yield useful results for samples of this size. To show that reliable yield curves can be obtained with the present technique, the excitation curve for the 847 keV γ ray from 56Fe has been measured. Because of the close geometry, an unfolding routine was employed to account for the angular distribution and energy variation of the neutrons as well as the attenuation of γ rays in the scatterer. The resulting yield curve is in good agreement with previous measurements. © 1971.