Large-Scale Calculations of β-Decay Rates and Implications for r-Process Nucleosynthesis

Nuclear β decay is a key element of the astrophysical rapid neutron capture process (r-process). In this paper, we present state-of-the-art global β-decay calculations based on the quantified relativistic nuclear energy density functional theory and the deformed proton-neutron quasiparticle random-phase approximation. Our analysis considers contributions from allowed and first-forbidden transitions. We used two point-coupling functionals with carefully calibrated time-odd terms and isoscalar pairing strength. The new calculations display consistent results for both employed functionals, especially near the neutron drip line, suggesting slower β decays past the N=126 neutron shell closure than in commonly used β-decay models. The new rates, along with the existing rates based on the latest non-relativistic calculations, are found to slow down the synthesis of heavy elements in the r-process and significantly reduce the contribution of neutron-induced fission.