Constraining the νp-process through the study of neutron-induced charged-particle reactions on short-lived ⁵⁶Ni

The rate of the ⁵⁶Ni(n,p)⁵⁶Co reaction is a critical input for understanding the synthesis of heavy elements through the νp-process. However, there currently exists no experimental data for the reaction. This is due to the technical difficulties of producing a quality neutron beam at the relevant energies and in the fabrication of a short-lived ⁵⁶Ni target (T_1/2 ≈ 6 days). Both issues can be addressed by leveraging the unique capabilities of the Los Alamos Neutron Science Center (LANSCE), through target production and fabrication at the Isotope Production Facility and through the neutron beams that can be delivered to the Low Energy (n,z), LENZ, experiment station. To safely perform the (n,p) measurement with the highly radioactive target, we are developing an optimized detection system with guidance from a GEANT4 simulation. Progress towards the development of a ⁵⁶Ni target, along with current and planned measurements with other nickel isotopes will be presented.