Researching the super heavy elements: a quantitative understanding through integrating new reaction time measurements with theoretical models

The creation of new superheavy elements through nuclear fusion challenges our understanding of the dynamics of nuclear reactions, of nuclear structure, and relativistic effects in chemistry. Building on my recent insights, zeptosecond nuclear reaction timescales will be measured to quantify the key physical variables controlling fusion of heavy nuclei, and provide the first rigorous test of different dynamical fusion models at the boundary between quantum and classical physics. Developing new research instrumentation, the project complements recent Government investment in Australia's Heavy Ion Accelerator. Strong international links will enhance future opportunities at international-scale radioactive isotope accelerators under development.