Excitation functions of (n, α) reaction cross-sections for some important isotopes from threshold to 20 MeV

Abstract The ( n ,  α ) reaction cross-sections from threshold to ∼20 MeV on some important nuclides 42 Ca, 50,53 Cr, 56,57 Fe, 58,62 Ni, and 63,65 Cu involved in the reactor shielding design have been calculated using the Hauser–Feshbach statistical model with preequilibrium effects by involving PCROSS option in Empire 2.19. The transmission coefficients for neutrons in the entrance channel are calculated using the optical model potential of Koning. In the exit channel optical model potential of Avrigeanu has been used. The experimental values have been chosen carefully for all the isotopes, from EXFOR data base. The calculations are compared with existing experimental data as well as with evaluated data files (ENDF/B-VI.0 and JENDL-3.3). A good agreement between the calculated and experimental data validates the nuclear model approaches with increased predictive power to supplement and extend the nuclear database that is required for several applications.