---
abstract: 'A low-energy enhancement of the $\gamma$-ray strength function in several light and medium-mass nuclei has been observed recently in $^3$He-induced reactions. The effect of this enhancement on $(n,\gamma$) cross-sections is investigated for stable and unstable neutron-rich Fe, Mo and Cd isotopes. Our results indicate that the radiative neutron capture cross sections may increase considerably due to the low-energy enhancement when approaching the neutron drip line. This could have non-negligible consequences on r-process nucleosynthesis calculations.'
author:
- 'A. C. Larsen'
- 'S. Goriely'
title: 'Impact of a low-energy enhancement in the $\gamma$-ray strength function on the radiative neutron-capture'
---

Introduction
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The $\gamma$-ray strength function or radiative strength function (RSF) characterizes average electromagnetic decay properties of excited nuclei. This quantity is important for describing the $\gamma$-emission channel in nuclear reactions. It is also indispensable for calculating nuclear reaction cross sections and reaction rates relevant for astrophysical applications. Recent studies [@ar07; @go98] clearly show the importance of a precise description of the $\gamma$-ray strength function at low energies, especially for a proper understanding of the nucleosynthesis of the elements heavier than iron by the rapid neutron-capture process (r-process). The r-process nucleosynthesis is called for to explain the origin of about 