Coalescence effects on neutron production in high energy nucleus-nucleus collisions

Reliable methods for accurately predicting neutron production cross sections are needed for a variety of applications including space radiation protection and the use of heavy ion beams in physics and medicine. A three-step model is utilized, including a modified optical model for abrasion and ablation and a coalescence model for neutron removal in the production of deuterons, tritons and other heavier nuclei. Estimates of spectral and angular distributions of neutrons are in good agreement with published cross section measurements.