Charge transfer and ionization in collisions between multiply charged noble gas ions

Using the crossed-beams technique we have measured absolute total cross sec tions for charge transfer and ionization of fourfold charged ions of argon, krypton and xenon. In the centre-of-mass energy range from 10 to 60 keV to tal cross section values around 10(-16) cm(2) have been obtained. In additi on, using near-threshold electron-impact ionization, the fraction of metast able ions was estimated to be of the order of 12%-29% for Ar to Xe, respect ively. Based on the measured cross sections, expected particle losses in fu ture storage rings, which are currently under discussion, have been calcula ted.