Foundations of Isomer Physics for Energy Applications

Metastable excited nuclear states, isomers, have been of strong interest for decades, with studies motivated by their physical properties and the promise of high-energy-density applications. Much research has concentrated on induced depletion processes as a potential means of controlling the release of energy stored in these isomers. This research comprises a very specialized sub-field of nuclear physics and, as such, has often suffered from a lack of connection with the larger body of more traditional studies. The YSU isomer project has taken a broad view of induced depletion studies with the aim of providing a firm foundation to this maturing field. This report reviews work conducted by this project on induced isomer depletion and related issues of nuclear structure, as exemplified by peer-reviewed publications during the grant period.