Structure and astrophysical role of the neutron-rich 55≤Z≤92 isotopes: status and perspectives

Heavy neutron-rich nuclei are of great interest. Phenomena like shell evolution ( N ∼ 126 , Z ∼ 82 ), prolate–triaxial–oblate–spherical shape evolution ( Z = 70–80), possible deformed shell closures or structure change in the rare-earth region are under intense scrutiny. This latter is closely linked to the rare-earth r -process peak, while the N ∼ 126 nuclei are connected to the third r -process peak at A ∼ 195 . Recent technical developments (e.g. increasing beam intensities at fragmentation facilities, new detection systems) provided huge amount of new experimental data, published in the last decade, allowing to probe structure and astrophysical models. Experimental methods and recent results are reviewed and future opportunities discussed.