Stopping of very heavy ions in Mylar

Available experimental data on Mylar stopping powers ($SP$s) for heavy ions (HIs) at energies $0.04⩽E/A⩽15$ MeV/nucleon have been compared to different semi-empirical model calculations with the aim of probing their possible usage for the estimates of ranges for very heavy ions at $E/A<0.5$ MeV/nucleon, which are of practical interest. Significant deviations from the calculated $SP$ values were found for fission fragments and lighter HIs at $E/A<1$ MeV/nucleon. A new model parameterization for Mylar $SP$ has been proposed. Range estimates obtained with any $SP$ model calculation show a critical dependence of their mean values on the approximated electronic stopping powers and the nuclear (collisional) $SP$ component. The last plays a crucial role at the end of the range and could only be obtained by calculations. Practical applicability of the results of investigation for very heavy evaporation residues (products of complete fusion reactions induced by HIs) implies the use of a thick catcher foil corresponding to the largest ranges derived in the estimates or the range measurements for these products.