Patent ID: 6326627
Filing Date: 2001-12-04
Classification: G21K

Abstract:
A device for separating ions which comprises:an elongated chamber defining a longitudinal axis and having a first end and a second end;a central electrode positioned in said chamber and oriented along said axis, said electrode including a first element and a second element;a means for generating an axially oriented magnetic field, B, in said chamber, said magnetic field having a substantially full magnetic mirror centered on said axis and perpendicular thereto at said first end of said chamber, and a substantially annular-shaped magnetic mirror centered on said axis and perpendicular thereto at said second end of said chamber; anda means for generating a radially oriented electric field, E, in said chamber to create ions of said first and second elements as said first and second elements are sputtered from said central electrode, said electric field being configured to confine ions of said first element for exit from said chamber through said annular-shaped magnetic mirror, and to direct ions of said second element into contact with said central electrode for sputtering thereof.