Search for the high-spin members of the $\alpha$:2n:$\alpha$ band in ${}^{10}$Be

Abstract

Method: Measuring excitation functions for ${}^6$He+$\alpha$ scattering, populating states in the excitation energy range from 4.5 MeV to 8 MeV in ${}^{10}$Be using a ${}^6$He rare-isotope beam and a thick helium gas target. Results: No new excited states in ${}^{10}$Be have been observed. Stringent limitation on the possible degree of $\alpha$-clustering of the hypothetical yrast 6${}^{+}$ state has been obtained. Conclusions: The high-spin members of the $\alpha$:2n:$\alpha$ molecular-like rotational band configuration, that is considered to have a 0${}^{+}$ bandhead at 6.18 MeV, either do not exist or have small overlap with the ${}^6$He(g.s.)+$\alpha$ channel.