Direct neutron capture cross sections of ⁶²Ni in the s-process energy range

Direct neutron capture on ⁶²Ni is calculated in the DWBA and the Maxwellian averaged cross sections and astrophysical reaction rates in the energy range relevant for s-process nucleosynthesis are given. It is confirmed that the thermal value of the capture cross section contains a subthreshold resonance contribution. Contrary to previous investigations it is found that the capture at higher energies is dominated by p waves, thus leading to a considerably increased cross section at s-process energies and a modified energy dependence.