Physicists introduce method of mechanical detection of individual nuclear decays

Researchers at Yale University have developed a novel method for mechanically detecting individual nuclear decays, which could enhance the study of nuclear processes and particle physics. This technique, detailed in a paper published in Physical Review Letters, utilizes sensitive micron-scale force sensors and accelerometers that leverage optically trapped particles in a vacuum. The method is particularly notable for its ability to detect all particles emitted during nuclear decay, including neutral particles that are typically challenging to identify with conventional detectors.

The researchers demonstrated that by monitoring the motion of a dust-sized particle containing radioactive nuclei, they could detect changes in the particle's electric charge when a nucleus decays and emits charged particles like alpha or beta particles. Their initial experiments confirmed the capability to detect individual nuclear decays, even those occurring infrequently, such as once a day. This advancement could have significant implications for nuclear monitoring and non-proliferation efforts.

Future research aims to extend these techniques to smaller nanoparticles, potentially allowing for the detection of neutrinos, which are notoriously difficult to observe due to their weak interactions. The introduction of this detection method opens new avenues for exploring dark matter, exotic particles, and other fundamental aspects of particle physics that have previously eluded detection.