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Title: Resonance-enhanced multiphoton ionization for diagnosis of a weakly ionized plasma

Journal Article · · Rev. Sci. Instrum.; (United States)
DOI:https://doi.org/10.1063/1.1139415· OSTI ID:6460214

We describe an experimental setup in which resonance-enhanced multiphoton ionization (REMPI) is used for diagnosis of neutral particles (atoms or molecules) effusing from a plasma. Quantum-state-specific detection, achieved by selective ionization with the help of REMPI, yields the distribution over their internal degrees of freedom. Discrimination against nonlaser-produced ions is performed by means of the combination of an electric and a magnetic field. The applicability of the setup is demonstrated by the determination of the rotational temperature of ground-state hydrogen molecules in a multicusp ion source. Under nondischarge conditions a detection limit is achieved of approx. =2 x 10/sup 10/ state-selected hydrogen molecules/cm/sup 3/, corresponding to a value of approx. =7 x 10/sup 8//cm/sup 3/ at the analysis region. Under discharge conditions, this detection limit is deteriorated by the presence of metastable hydrogen molecules, which are ionized in a one-photon process.

Research Organization:
Association EURATOM-FOM, FOM-Institute for Atomic and Molecular Physics, Kruislaan 407, NL-1098 SJ Amsterdam, The Netherlands
OSTI ID:
6460214
Journal Information:
Rev. Sci. Instrum.; (United States), Vol. 58:8
Country of Publication:
United States
Language:
English