Negative Molecular Ion-Particle Beam Source

Techniques for forming a beam of negative molecular ions by attaching electrons to molecular gases are discussed and a conceptual design for a quasi-continuous source is given. Performance estimates show that a concept demonstration could be performed using currently available excimer lasers to create a population of free electrons by photoionizing xenon. Scaled-up ion sources yielding tenths of amperes will be practical if more efficient excitation schemes can be developed.