A pulsed positronium beam using a positron buffer gas trap

Area of Science:

• Atomic and Molecular Physics
• Plasma Physics
• Antimatter Physics

Background:

• Positronium beams are valuable tools in various physics experiments.
• Previous methods for generating positronium beams had limitations in control and tunability.

Purpose of the Study:

• To describe the operation of a novel pulsed positronium beam.
• To demonstrate the capability of tailoring positron beam characteristics for positronium formation.

Main Methods:

• Utilized a two-stage buffer gas positron trap (BGT), also known as a Surko trap.
• Employed charge exchange with atomic or molecular gases to convert a tailored positron beam into a positronium beam.
• Leveraged the angular differential positronium production cross section for beam collimation.

Main Results:

• Successfully generated a pulsed positronium beam.
• Demonstrated control over the areal density and temporal spread of the positron beam.
• Achieved an energy-tunable and collimated positronium beam.

Conclusions:

• The described BGT-based method provides a versatile platform for generating tailored positronium beams.
• This technique enhances the potential for precise experimental control in positronium-related research.