Double beta decay with large scale Yb-loaded scintillators

Abstract

The potential of large scale Yb-loaded liquid scintillators as proposed for solar neutrino spectroscopy are investigated with respect to double beta decay. The potential for beta-beta- - decay of 176Yb as well as the beta+/EC - decay for 168Yb is discussed. Not only getting for the first time an experimental half-life limit on 176Yb - decay, this will even be at least comparable or better than existing ones from other isotopes. Also for the first time a realistic chance to detect beta+/EC - decay exists. Effects of MeV-neutrinos are discussed as well.

Comments: 6 pages, 2 eps figures