Measurement of the electron capture probabilities of 55Fe with a metallic magnetic calorimeter

• Published in: Applied radiation and isotopes Vol. 134; pp. 395 - 398
• Main Authors: Loidl, M., Rodrigues, M., Mariam, R.
• Format: Journal Article
• Language: English
• Published: Elsevier Ltd 01.04.2018
• Subjects: Cryogenic detectors; Decay data; Electron capture probabilities; Ionizing radiation metrology; Metallic magnetic calorimeters; Cryogenic detectors; Metallic magnetic calorimeters; Electron capture probabilities; Decay data; Ionizing radiation metrology
• ISSN: 0969-8043; 1872-9800
• DOI: 10.1016/j.apradiso.2017.10.042

The ratios of the electron capture probabilities PK, PL and PM of 55Fe have been measured with a metallic magnetic calorimeter, a specific type of cryogenic detector. The 55Fe source was enclosed in the detector absorber, whose dimensions were chosen such that the detection efficiency for Mn K X-rays was larger than 99.99%. Since all electrons and photons emitted by the source are absorbed in the detector, the detection efficiency is virtually 100% for K, L and M captures. The energy threshold was low enough to allow for clear separation of the M captures (~ 80eV) from noise. The capture probability ratios were translated to capture probabilities using the recommended value for the probability of the undetected N captures. The resulting values are in agreement both with the recommended values of PK, PL and PM and with the experimental data of Pengra and coworkers. •The electron capture probability ratios of 55Fe were measured with a metallic magnetic calorimeter.•K, L and M captures were detected with high efficiency.•The measured probabilities are in agreement with experimental values of Pengra et al. and with the recommended values.