The η NN-system at low energy within a three-body approach

The role of the $\eta NN$-interaction is studied in the low energy regime in $\eta$-deuteron reactions as well as in coherent and incoherent $\eta$-photoproduction on the deuteron using a three-body model with separable two-body interactions. The three-body approach turns out to be quite essential in the most important lowest partial wave. Results are presented for differential and total cross sections as well as for the $\eta$-meson spectrum. They differ significantly from those predicted by a simple rescattering model in which only first-order $\eta N$- and $NN$-interactions in the final state are considered. The major features of the experimental data of $\eta$-photoproduction in the near-threshold region are well reproduced.