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Radiometric characterization of a Penning discharge in the vacuum ultraviolet
Applied Optics
|October 12, 2010
Summary
A new Penning discharge source using permanent magnets is proposed as a radiometric transfer standard for vacuum UV spectroscopy below 20 nm. Its radiant intensities were calibrated against a storage ring, showing promise for accurate measurements.
Area of Science:
- Atomic, Molecular, and Optical Physics
- Radiometry and Photometry
- Vacuum Ultraviolet (VUV) Spectroscopy
Background:
- Radiometric transfer standards are crucial for accurate spectral measurements.
- Existing sources may have limitations in the vacuum UV (VUV) region below 20 nm.
- Penning discharges offer potential as stable VUV emission sources.
Purpose of the Study:
- To develop and evaluate a Penning discharge as a radiometric transfer standard source.
- To investigate its performance in the VUV spectral region below 20 nm.
- To calibrate the source using a well-established standard.
Main Methods:
- Design and construction of a Penning discharge source utilizing NdFeB permanent magnets.
- Study of radiant intensities of emission lines under various discharge conditions.
- Absolute calibration of selected Al and buffer gas lines against the Berlin Electron Storage Ring's spectral radiant power.
Main Results:
- The Penning discharge demonstrated stable operation with simple adjustments.
- Radiant intensities of various spectral lines were systematically studied.
- Absolute radiant intensities were determined, showing good agreement with the storage ring standard.
Conclusions:
- The developed Penning discharge is a viable radiometric transfer standard for VUV spectroscopy below 20 nm.
- The source offers advantages in simple operation and electrode exchangeability.
- Calibration against a storage ring confirms its accuracy for spectral measurements.
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