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A study of isotopically selective photoionization of ytterbium atoms for laser isotope separation

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Journal of Russian Laser Research Aims and scope

Abstract

Atomic-vapor laser isotope separation (AVLIS) is studied experimentally and theoretically for ytterbium vapors. The optimum ionization scheme and the process dynamics are determined. The photoionization scheme uses the transitions

$$6^1 S_0 \mathop \to \limits^{555.648nm} 6^3 P_1 \mathop \to \limits^{581.067nm} (7/2,3/2)_2 \mathop \to \limits^{582.79nm} (52353cm^{ - 1} ).$$

For a numerical study of photoionization dynamics, the mathematical model of the AVLIS process is used, which is based on the density matrix formalism and Maxwell's equations. Selective photoionization of the168Yb isotope is simulated numerically. The yield and selectivity of the process are determined. It is shown that the length of the photoionization region is limited because the laser radiation is absorbed by atoms of171Yb and173Yb isotopes. The advantage of the laser method over the method using an electromagnetic separator is demonstrated.

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Authors and Affiliations

  1. Institute of General Physics, Russian Academy of Sciences, Vavilov St. 38, 117942, Moscow, Russia

    S. K. Borisov, M. A. Kuz'mina & V. A. Mishin

Authors
  1. S. K. Borisov
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  2. M. A. Kuz'mina
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  3. V. A. Mishin
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Additional information

Translated from a manuscript submitted June 25, 1995.

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Borisov, S.K., Kuz'mina, M.A. & Mishin, V.A. A study of isotopically selective photoionization of ytterbium atoms for laser isotope separation. J Russ Laser Res 17, 332–345 (1996). https://doi.org/10.1007/BF02073528

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  • DOI: https://doi.org/10.1007/BF02073528

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