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Characterization of a high-brightness, laser-cooled Li+ ion source
Published
Author(s)
Jamie R. Gardner, William R. McGehee, Jabez J. McClelland
Abstract
Ion sources based on laser cooling have recently provided new pathways to high-resolution microscopy, ion milling, and ion implantation. Here, we present the design and detailed characterization of Li-7 magneto-optical trap ion source (MOTIS) with a peak brightness of ≈ 1.3 x 10^5 A m^-2 sr^-1 eV^-1 and a maximum continuous current over 1 nA. These values significantly surpass previous Li MOTIS performance benchmarks. Using simple models, we discuss how the performance of this system relates to fundamental operating limits. This source will support a range of projects using lithium ion beams for surface microscopy and nanostructure characterization, including Li+ implantation for studies of ionic transport in energy storage materials.
Gardner, J.
, McGehee, W.
and McClelland, J.
(2019),
Characterization of a high-brightness, laser-cooled Li+ ion source, Journal of Applied Physics, [online], https://doi.org/10.1063/1.5085068
(Accessed October 2, 2025)