Optical polarization of Na-24 nuclei in a trap based on photoinduced drift

The results of experiments on the polarization of nuclei of the Na-24 radio active isotope in a gas trap are presented. The action of the trap is based on the effect of the photoinduced drift of atoms caused by laser radiation . The anisotropy of gamma -radiation emitted by Na-24 during the illuminati on of sodium vapor in the trap by circularly polarized laser radiation is m easured and its dependence on the temperature of the trap walls is analyzed . A degree of polarization of Na-24 nuclei of 62 +/- 2% is attained at temp eratures above 1300 K, for which a rapid desorption of Na atoms from the wa lls and the decomposition of Na-based compounds take place. (C) 2001 MAIK " Nauka/Interperiodica".