A Universal Negative or Positive Ion Source

Abstract

This report describes a multipurpose negative or positive ion source which can be used in a variety of low energy or high energy research applications. Conversion from negative/positive modes of operation can be accomplished by simply reversing the polarities of pertinent extraction and beam transport power supplies. Preliminary results obtained from recent evaluative studies along with design details and negative and positive yields observed to data are given. Thus far, the source has demonstrated μA intensity capabilities for several negative and positive ion species including C^-, Cu^-, Au^-, N⁺, N₂⁺, P⁺, A⁺, and Cs⁺.