A new 9Be(α,n) cross-section evaluation for use in the SOURCES computer code

Experimental breakup reaction data was the basis for choosing a set of α optical potential parameters for calculating the cross section from the 9Be(α,α′n) reaction with the GNASH code. Although not in complete agreement with experimental values, the promising results suggest additional work and continued research for optimal parameters. Accommodating modifications in the SOURCES code system required improved data and an approximation for the three-body reaction branching fractions is presented as a temporary solution. Experimental spectra from AcBe, CmBe, and simulated AmBe neutron sources are compared to SOURCES calculations using the new branching fractions and serve as benchmarks for this new version of the code.