Generation of Pulsed, Energy-Selected Metal Atom Beam by Laser Vaporization of Metal Compounds
Abstract
A fast pulsed beam of neutral metal atoms is produced by laser vaporization of a solid metal compound sample in a modified high-temperature mass spectrometer. Atomic beams of several eV kinetic energy are generated at substantially lower laser power densities than necessary when irradiating a pure metal sample. The energy of the atomic beam can be controlled with the laser power, similar to studies conducted on thin metal films. The source, however, overcomes the problem of short sample lifetime associated with irradiating thin films. Samples have been irradiated for several hours without observing a change in beam intensity or energy, thus offering an interesting source for kinetic studies. The energy distribution is typically narrower than a Maxwell-Boltzman distribution. The dependence of the beam intensity and energy distribution on laser power and metal compound counter anion are presented.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Nov 12, 1991
- Accession Number
- ADA251591
Entities
People
- Edmond Murad
- Lyn R. Watson
- Rainer A. Dressler
- Richard H. Salter
- Terry L. Thiem
Organizations
- Phillips Laboratory