Results from the search for neutrinoless double beta decay with NEMO-3 and The SuperNEMO project

Abstract

International audienceThe NEMO-3 experiment located in the Modane Underground Laboratory (LSM) is searching for neutrinoless double beta decay. The experiment has been taking data since 2003 with a range of isotopes. The main isotopes are ~ 7 kg of 100Mo and ~ 1 kg of 82Se. Since no evidence for neutrinoless double beta decay has been found, a 90% Confidence Level lower limit on the half-life of this process is derived. From this we determine an upper limit on the effective Majorana neutrino mass. New results using 150Nd, an isotope of special interest due to its potential use in future experiments, will also be presented. The data are also interpreted in terms of alternative models, such as weak right-handed currents or Majoron emission. NEMO-3 has also performed precision measurements of the standard model double beta decay process for several isotopes. Measurements of this process are important for reducing the uncertainties on nuclear matrix elements. A precise measurement of the half-life for the double beta decay of 130Te and a comparison with the conflicting results from geochemical experiments has also been performed. The most recent experimental results of NEMO-3 will be presented