Toward the Limits of Nuclear Existence: First Science with FRIB

Gade, A. [Michigan State University, East Lansing, MI (United States)]; Macchiavelli, A. O. [Oak Ridge National Laboratory (ORNL), Oak Ridge, TN (United States)]

doi:10.1146/annurev-nucl-121423-100941

DOE OSTI · 3599480

Toward the Limits of Nuclear Existence: First Science with FRIB

Gade, A. [Michigan State University, East Lansing, MI (United States)]·Macchiavelli, A. O. [Oak Ridge National Laboratory (ORNL), Oak Ridge, TN (United States)]

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Abstract

The opportunity to explore the properties of short-lived atomic nuclei—or rare isotopes—in laboratories has enabled discoveries across the sciences related to the nature of the nuclear force and the limits of nuclear existence, the origin of the elements in the Universe, the cosmic matter–antimatter asymmetry, and the application of rare isotopes for society and the nation. The newest-generation Facility for Rare Isotope Beams (FRIB) on the campus of Michigan State University commenced operations in May 2022 as a user facility for the US Department of Energy, Office of Science, Office of Nuclear Physics. FRIB provides fast, stopped, and reaccelerated beams of rare isotopes for measurements, serving a 1,800-member-strong community of scientists from around the world. Here, this article reviews some of the first results from FRIB, showcasing the breadth of the science discoveries that have already occurred while the facility is ramping up to full capability.

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Gade, A. [Michigan State University, East Lansing, MI (United States)], Macchiavelli, A. O. [Oak Ridge National Laboratory (ORNL), Oak Ridge, TN (United States)]. 2026-07-14. Toward the Limits of Nuclear Existence: First Science with FRIB. https://doi.org/10.1146/annurev-nucl-121423-100941

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