Development of Nuclear Target Production and Characterization Capabilities at San José State University
Publication Date
6-26-2025
Document Type
Conference Proceeding
Publication Title
EPJ Web of Conferences
Volume
327
DOI
10.1051/epjconf/202532701015
Abstract
We report the capabilities of a new nuclear targetry lab that has been established at San José State University (SJSU). Focusing on thin film targets for low energy nuclear reaction studies, the SJSU targetry group is able to make and characterize nuclear targets for a variety of experimental efforts and particle accelerator facilities. Current production techniques include physical vapor deposition via a resistive heating vacuum evaporator, molecular plating, cold rolling of ductile materials, solvent casting for deuterated plastic targets, among others. SJSU's target characterization capabilities include microscopy for surface morphology, FTIR & XRD for elemental and chemical analysis, and α-energy loss for film thickness. As a primarily undergraduate and minority-serving institution, our targetry group leverages engaging targetry research as an introduction to nuclear science and a means to broaden the nuclear science pipeline.
Funding Number
2209613
Funding Sponsor
San José State University
Department
Chemistry
Recommended Citation
Nicholas E. Esker, A. Ard, B. Barrios, W. Botha, L. Chacon, J. Drapal, M. S. Guerrero, J. Huizar, L. Le, S. Randhawa, and P. Vu. "Development of Nuclear Target Production and Characterization Capabilities at San José State University" EPJ Web of Conferences (2025). https://doi.org/10.1051/epjconf/202532701015
