Charge distribution of light mass fission products in the fast neutron induced fission of 232Th, 238U, 240Pu and 244Cm

Fractional cumulative yields (FCY) of various light mass fission products in the fast neutron induced fission of 232Th, 238U, 240Pu and 244Cm have been determined by using the off-line γ-ray spectrometric technique. From present and literature data, width of isobaric charge distribution (σZ), the most probable charge (ZP) and the experimental charge polarization (∆ΖEXPT) as a function of fragment mass were deduced. The ∆ΖEXPT values from the present work for light mass chains and earlier work for heavy mass chains show oscillating nature due to nuclear structure effect. The ∆ΖMPE values based on minimum potential energy surface were theoretically calculated, which shows a systematic decrease trend with the approach of symmetric split due to the liquid drop behaviour of the fissioning nucleus. •The fast neutron induced fission of actinides is important for fast reactor and ADSs.•It is important to determine the FCY of fission products in nuclear fission for charge distribution studies.•Charge distribution in low energy fission of actinides provides information on descent dynamics and nuclear structure effects.