Main magnetic focus ion source: Device with high electron current density

Abstract

We discuss recent experiments performed with an upgraded version of the main magnetic focus ion source (MaMFIS) at the Joint Institute for Nuclear Research (JINR) in Dubna. The device operates in the range of electron beam energies extended up to $40$ keV. The achieved electron current densities are of the order of $10$ kA/cm$^{2}$. This assessment is consistent both with the very short ionization time and with the utmost ionization degree of the produced highly charged ions. Due to its high efficiency, the MaMFIS technology is especially promising for ionization of short-lived radionuclides and heavy elements. A new scheme for charge breeding is proposed.