Massive binary mergers: A unique scenario for the sgB[e] phenomenon?

Conference item

At least 10% of all massive stars are expected to merge with a binary companion during their evolution, producing an initially rapidly rotating merged object. These merger products are excellent candidates for B[e] supergiants. In this review we summarize the different types of mergers and show that the merger rate is compatible with the B[e] supergiant formation rate. We then apply the merger paradigm to various observed systems that have been suspected or proposed to be merged systems: the progenitor of SN 1987A, Sheridan 25, the B[e] supergiant RA and eta Carinae.

Authors: Podsiadlowski, P; Morris, T; Ivanova, N

• Publication status: Published
• Journal: STARS WITH THE B[E] PHENOMENON, PROCEEDINGS
• Volume: 355
• Pages: 259-267
• Publication date: 2006-01-01
• Event title: Meeting on Stars with the B (e) Phenomenon
• ISBN: 9781583812235
• Keywords: CONTACT; MODEL; CLOSE BINARIES; NEBULA; common-envelope evolution; R4