The laser ion source and trap (LIST) - A highly selective ion source

A combined structure consisting of a laser ion Source and a linear Paul trap (LIST) has been designed to produce radioactive ion beams of high purity and optimal temporal and spacial brilliance at on-line isotope separator (ISOL) facilities. The functionality of the LIST was experimentally demonstrated in off-line tests using the RISIKO off-line mass separator together with an all solid state Ti:sapphire laser system at the University of Mainz. Two different ion trap designs were tested extracting the performance of these devices regarding ionization efficiency and selectivity as well as time Structure and transverse emittance of the produced ion beam. The results of these measurements are presented together with an outlook on the next steps towards the first on-line application of the LIST. (C) 2008 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.