SEISM: a 60 GHz cusp electron cyclotron resonance ion source

Area of Science:

• Nuclear Physics
• Plasma Physics
• Accelerator Technology

Background:

• The Laboratoire de Physique Subatomique et de Cosmologie (LPSC) is undertaking a research program focused on producing pulsed ion beams.
• High ionization efficiency is crucial, particularly for applications involving radioactive ion beams.
• Generating the necessary high magnetic fields requires specialized helix techniques.

Purpose of the Study:

• To develop a novel source for pulsed ion beams with high ionization efficiency.
• To design and optimize a magnetic structure for generating high magnetic fields using helix techniques.
• To prepare for the integration of this technology for radioactive ion beam production.

Main Methods:

• Utilized helix techniques developed at the Laboratoire National des Champs Magnétiques Intenses (LNCMI).
• Employed 3D simulations to define the geometry of the helices.
• Performed computer-aided design (CAD) for the mechanical parts of the magnetic structure, optimizing for reduced source volume.

Main Results:

• A cusp structure was chosen as the initial approach for the magnetic field generation.
• 3D simulations guided the precise definition of helix geometry.
• The mechanical design was optimized to minimize the overall dimensions of the ion source.

Conclusions:

• The development program is progressing towards the creation of a high-performance pulsed ion source.
• The optimized magnetic structure design is a key step towards efficient radioactive ion beam production.
• The first 60 GHz magnetic structure is anticipated to be operational by the end of 2009.