Search for particle-stable tetraneutrons in thermal fission of $^{235}$U

Abstract

Background: The existence of a tetraneutron comprising four neutrons has long been debated. Purpose: Motivated by a recent observation of particle-stable tetraneutrons, we investigated potential particle-stable tetraneutron emission in thermal neutron-induced $^{235}$U fission using a nuclear research reactor. Methods: We performed $\gamma$-ray spectroscopy for a $^{88}$SrCO$_3$ sample irradiated in a reactor core. Stable $^{88}$Sr was expected to produce $^{91}$Sr by a tetraneutron-induced ($^4n$,n) reaction; hence, observation of $\gamma$-rays followed by $\beta$ decay of $^{91}$Sr would indicate particle-stable tetraneutron emission. Results: The $\gamma$-ray spectrum of an irradiated $^{88}$SrCO$_3$ sample did not show any photopeak for $^{91}$Sr. Conclusion: The emission rate of particle-stable tetraneutrons, if they exist, is estimated to be lower than $8\times 10^{-7}$ per fission at the 95% confidence level, assuming the cross-sections of reactions induced by hypothetical particle-stable tetraneutrons.