ION-SOURCE DESIGN CRITERIA FOR AMS

The requirements for AMS solid sample ion sources: high stable current s, high efficiency, low memory effect, rapid sample switching and isob ar separation are reviewed and the application of a variety of sources , using negative and neutral primary sputtering beams and thermal ioni zation, in addition to the traditionally used Csf sputter source, is d escribed. Discussion follows on the use of charge changing as a logica l extension of the ion production and specification process. Examples are taken from work currently in progress at IsoTrace, particularly th at begun by L.R. Kilius on resonant charge changing and on the analysi s of non-conducting sample materials.