Abstract

Results are presented on the maximum current density obtained in pulsed (2 μs) contact ionization sources that utilize potassium and cesium atoms on porous tungsten substrates. Maximum values of 89 and 48 mA/cm2 for K+ and Cs+, respectively, were obtained in space charge limited mode for the source geometry used. Similar results were observed for potassium aluminosilicate (K20⋅Al2O3⋅4SiO2) sources. Neutral emission rates were measured in the temperature range of interest to heavy ion fusion (1000–1150 °C). Evidence is presented regarding a diffusion-limited flow of alkali atoms towards the emitting surface, which would be a determining factor in the source lifetime.

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