Development of a novel Internal Radio-frequency Ion Source for Cyclotrons (IRISC)

Abstract

IRISC (Internal Radio-frequency Ion Source for Cyclotrons) is an innovative design of an internal ion source, primarily for producing H− ions, in which 2.45 GHz radio-frequency power is supplied to its electrodes for achieving electron emission. Theoretical work indicates that lower electrode sputtering and higher extraction efficiency of H− may be achieved as compared to its standard cold-cathode direct current (DC) Penning Ionization Gauge (PIG) counterparts. If achieved, IRISC would arise as a ground-breaking ion source with significant importance for compact cyclotrons. IRISC dimensions have been matched to CIEMAT’s AMIT cold-cathode DC PIG ion source so that, in the future, side-by-side testing can be carried out and, eventually, both types can be used in AMIT cyclotrons. This contribution presents IRISC key design aspects, outcome from simulations, its dedicated test bench and first low-power test results from a prototype.