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U.S. Department of Energy
Office of Scientific and Technical Information

Method and apparatus for the production of cluster ions

Patent ·
OSTI ID:5756757
This patent describes an apparatus for the production of large hydrogen or deuterium cluster ions of narrow mass distribution. It comprises: a source of purified hydrogen gas cooled to temperatures below 30{degrees} K. and held at a predetermined pressure; and means for ionizing the gas. The ionizing means being located so as to minimize the formation of impurities through chemical reactions and so as to create such ionized gas immediately upstream of a supersonic nozzle. The nozzle being about 0.002 inches thick in its axial direction to prevent its becoming insulated through deposit of impurities or reaction products thereon and the nozzle opening into a first region that is maintained at a low pressure relative to the predetermined pressure.
Assignee:
Brookhaven National Lab., Upton, NY
Patent Number(s):
A; US 4755344
Application Number:
PPN: US 6-452362A
OSTI ID:
5756757
Country of Publication:
United States
Language:
English