Related Experiment Video
Updated: Jul 1, 2026
11:45
Experimental Methods for Trapping Ions Using Microfabricated Surface Ion Traps
Published on: August 17, 2017
RF phase effect on ion transmission in TRIUMF's ion-guide laser ion source (IG-LIS)
Ruohong Li1,2,3, Maryam Mostamand1,4, Jens Lassen1,4,5
1TRIUMF-Canada's Particle Accelerator Centre, Vancouver, British Columbia V6T 2A3, Canada.
The Review of Scientific Instruments
|July 10, 2025
Summary
A novel phase-locked radio frequency quadrupole (RFQ) ion-guide laser ion source (IG-LIS) improves ion transmission by 10%-50%. This advancement enhances beam purification and intensity modulation for downstream experiments.
Area of Science:
- Atomic and Molecular Physics
- Accelerator Physics
- Ion Source Technology
Background:
- Conventional ion-guide laser ion sources (IG-LIS) lack precise control over ion injection timing.
- Synchronization between laser ionization pulses and radio frequency (RF) fields is critical for efficient ion transmission.
- Optimizing ion transport is essential for maximizing experimental efficiency in accelerator facilities.
Purpose of the Study:
- To develop and evaluate a phase-locked radio frequency quadrupole (RFQ) ion-guide laser ion source (IG-LIS).
- To investigate the impact of RF phase synchronization on ion transmission efficiency.
- To explore additional functionalities for beam modulation and purification.
Main Methods:
- Development and offline testing of a phase-locked RFQ IG-LIS at TRIUMF.
- Online commissioning at an isotope separator and accelerator facility.
- Synchronization of laser pulse triggers with RF driving fields using a master clock.
Main Results:
- Achieved a 10%-50% improvement in ion transmission compared to non-phase-locked IG-LIS.
- Demonstrated effective modulation of ion intensity at hundreds of kHz.
- Enabled fast gating of ions for phase-sensitive detection.
Conclusions:
- Phase-locking the RFQ IG-LIS significantly enhances ion transmission efficiency.
- The developed method offers advanced control over ion beam characteristics.
- This technology provides valuable capabilities for downstream experimental applications, including beam purification.
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