What we do and do not know about the s-process
arXiv:astro-ph/0505424 · doi:10.1016/j.nuclphysa.2005.05.088
Abstract
AGB stars are the source for the main component of the -process. Here we discuss both the properties which are reasonably well known and those which still suffer from substantial uncertainties. In the former case, we are fairly sure that the -process contribution from AGB stars comes from masses between about 1 and 3 $\msun$, and the dominant neutron source is the C,n)O reaction. In the latter category remains the formation mechanism for the C-pocket. Attempts at including rotation seem to inhibit neutron capture reactions. Explaining the observations seems to require a spread in the size of the C-pocket so some stochastic process, such as rotation, must be involved.
To be published in Nuclear Physics A; Invited Review for "Nuclei in the Cosmos VIII", Vancouver, July 2004