We progressively refine a previously reported method for the selection of cluster and core in a binary cluster model, and hence reinforce our conclusions concerning the occurrence of exotic clustering in actinide nuclei. The extended method also reveals a competing binary mode in these nuclei in which the cluster charge and mass are substantially larger than those corresponding to an exotic decomposition.

• Received 11 August 1999

DOI:https://doi.org/10.1103/PhysRevC.61.024314