Physical Opportunities of the Nuclear excitation by electron capture Process

Abstract: Nuclear excitation by electron capture (NEEC) stands as a fundamental process in nuclear physics, with its theoretical foundation established nearly half a century ago. Despite its longstanding theoretical presence, experimental verification of NEEC has proved challenging. The enhanced $^{93m}$Mo isomer depletion experiment gives a remarkable try, yet it was ultimately hindered by substantial noise interference. This mini-review provides a brief historical overview of NEEC studies, and explores the role of the NEEC processes play in astrophysical environment and laser-induced plasma. To date there are several platforms proposed for NEEC searching, including traditional cooling storage rings, ion accelerators and electron beam ion traps, most of which aim to enhance the nuclear excitation rate to improve the signal-to-noise ratio. Additionally, the potential of employing exotic vortex beams is also described in this manuscript, proposing them as a novel methodological approach to address these challenges.