Miniature ion sources for analytical instruments

摘要: Abstract Recent advances in liquid metal ion sources are reported. The source operates on the principle of electric field ionization a molten film wetted needle. Application potential difference between needle anode and an apertured cathode results generation cusp at apex. intensity is sufficient to produce intense atomic-ion emission by ionization. Continuous currents 5–200 μA can be readily produced modest voltages (2–10 kV). outstanding features high brightness, no gas load, pure species, simplicity good lifetime. Ion beams have been from following metals: Cs, Ag, Au, Ga, In, Sn, Pb, Al, Hg, Si, Ge, U, Pt, Fe Bi.