Beams of short-lived nuclei by selective laser ionization in a gas cell

Resonant laser ionization in a gas cell has been implemented at the Leuven Isotope Separator On Line facility to produce beams of short-lived radioact ive nuclei and to study their decay characteristics. A description of the l aser ion source is presented together with technical details on the laser s ystem, the gas cell and the gas purification system. Results from off-line as well as on-line measurements are discussed. The new laser ion source has allowed beta-decay studies of neutron deficient (Ni-54, Rh-92) as well as neutron-rich (up to Ni-74 and Co-70) isotopes.