Optimization of Electron-Cyclotron-Resonance Charge-Breeder Ions

75546-Many Radioactive Ion Beam (RIB) laboratories around the world are using or planning to use Electron Cyclotron Resonance (ECR) Charge Breeders because they provide an economical way of producing RIBs. Currently, charge breeders, which produce multi-charged radioactive ions for nuclear physics research, produce the RIBs by a trial and error method. To optimize their use, beam dynamics and plasma model optimizations are needed. This project will investigate the beam capture processes in charge breeders and produce a comprehensive suite of numerical simulation tools for the analysis, design, and optimization of ECR ion sources of radioactive ion beams produced by charge breeders. Phase I will investigate the beam capture processes and develop a Monte Carlo simulation code for the singly-charged-ions injected into charge breeders. Atomic cross sections for the radioactive ion beams will be modeled, and the efficiency of the beam capture will be optimized. Simulations will be compared with existing experimental data. Commercial Applications and Other Benefits as described by the awardee: The numerical optimization of multiply charged (radioactive) ion sources should be directly applicable to the Rare Isotope Accelerator facility that is strongly supported by the DOE. A comprehensive suite of numerical tools also should have industrial applications, including advanced plasma processing.