Single- or multi- charged ion generator - has compression and reflector electrodes with through bores affecting pressure in anode space

摘要

The generator produces ions with variable charge density distribution, using a hot cathode a compression electrode and an anode in a low-pressure gas discharge chamber. The generated electrons are emitted into an anode chamber with reflector electrode on the anode side opposite the compression electrode. An electromagnetic coil generates a magnetic field along a symmetry axis for through bores in the compression and reflector electrodes and the anode. The through bores in the compression and reflector electrodes are of such dimensions that a lower pressure is attainable between them than in the low-pressure discharge chamber. The dimensions of the bores in the compression electrode permit pressure increase in low-pressure discharge chamber by ions flowing from the anode space. The pressure generated in the anode space is so low that the electron path exceeds the spacing of the compression and reflector electrode.