by Dr Dan Faircloth
(Rutherford Laboratory)
Particle sources are a critical component of all particle accelerators. This seminar will introduce the many methods of creating a beam for modern high power particle accelerators. Electron guns and ion sources are introduced. A brief introduction to some of the relevant concepts of plasma physics and beam formation are given. The different types of ion source used in accelerators today are examined. Positive ion sources for producing H+ ions and multiply charged heavy ions are covered. The physical principles involved with negative ion production are outlined and different types of negative ion sources are described. Cutting edge ion source technology and the techniques used to develop sources for the next generation of accelerators are briefly outlined.