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An international team of researchers has developed a novel model to predict the critical energy barriers governing heavy-ion fusion reactions. By combining the Skyrme energy density functional with reaction Q-values, the team created an effective nucleus-nucleus potential that accurately reproduces experimental data for over 440 fusion systems. This advancement could streamline the synthesis of superheavy nuclei and improve predictions for nuclear physics experiments, addressing challenges in energy production and fundamental nuclear research.

Keywords:
Heavy-Ion Fusion Reactions; Nucleus-Nucleus Potential; Superheavy Nuclei; Capture Cross Sections; Skyrme Energy Density Functional; Fusion Barriers; Nuclear Physics

Main Text:
Researchers from Guangxi Normal University and collaborating institutions have unveiled a groundbreaking model to predict the energy barriers controlling heavy-ion fusion reactions. Published in Nuclear Science and Techniques, their work introduces an effective nucleus-nucleus potential that combines the Skyrme energy density functional with reaction Q-values, offering high accuracy in describing fusion dynamics.

Precision in Predicting Fusion Barriers
Heavy-ion fusion reactions are pivotal for synthesizing superheavy nuclei (SHN) and probing nuclear structures. However, existing models struggle to predict fusion barriers—critical energy thresholds for successful reactions—especially for systems involving deformed nuclei like uranium-238. The new model addresses this by integrating dynamic effects and nuclear deformations, achieving a root-mean-square error of just 1.53 MeV for 443 experimentally measured barrier heights.

“Our approach bridges the gap between theoretical predictions and experimental data,” said Prof. Ning Wang, the study’s lead author. “It provides a reliable tool for designing experiments particularly the optimal incident energy aimed at creating new elements.”

Enhanced Capture Cross-Section Predictions
The team coupled their effective potential with the Siwek-Wilczynski formula to predict capture cross sections. The results closely matched experimental data for both spherical and deformed nuclei, such as calcium-48 colliding with uranium-238. Notably, the model explained reduced cross sections in reactions involving chromium and nickel isotopes, critical for synthesizing elements like 119 and 120.

Implications for Superheavy Nuclei Synthesis
The study highlights shallow capture pockets and smaller barrier radii in heavy systems, which suppress compound nucleus formation and favor quasi-fission. These insights are vital for optimizing experiments at facilities like the Superheavy Element Factory, where precise predictions save time and resources.

A Path Forward for Nuclear Physics
By balancing computational efficiency with accuracy, the model enables systematic studies of thousands of fusion systems. Future applications may extend to astrophysical processes, such as neutron star mergers, and advance technologies in nuclear energy and medical isotope production.

“This work not only deepens our understanding of nuclear interactions but also opens doors to exploring uncharted regions of the periodic table,” added Prof. Min Liu, a co-author of the study.

The research was supported by the National Natural Science Foundation of China and the Guangxi Natural Science Foundation. Data and methodology are openly accessible to foster global collaboration in nuclear science.  The complete study is accessible via DOI: 10.1007/s41365-024-01625-9.

Note to Editors:
Full details of the study, including datasets and visualizations, are available in
http://www.imqmd.com/fusion/