Une source d'ions lithium a forte intensite

Abstract In using the thermo-emission properties of a lithium salt (Beta-Eucryptite), a Li + ion-source has been realised under the simple form of a triode gun, the efficiency of which approaches 100%. The emission surface is heated by electronic bombardment. The current obtained is 15 mA for an accelerating voltage less than 10 kV. The low working temperature of the source (about 1200°C) thus prolongs the life-time of the emitter to several tens of hours. The beam has a cross-section area of 4 × 1 cm 2 on leaving the source and a relatively small angle of divergence.