The IsoDAR High Intensity H$_2^+$ Transport and Injection Tests

TL;DR

This paper reports on tests of a high-current H₂⁺ ion source and beam transport system for the IsoDAR experiment, demonstrating the reliability of the Versatile Ion Source and its potential for future upgrades.

Contribution

It provides a comprehensive evaluation of the Versatile Ion Source and beam transport system for high-current H₂⁺ production, with experimental results supporting its suitability for IsoDAR.

Findings

Versatile Ion Source reliably generates high H₂⁺ current.

Experimental results align well with simulation studies.

Further upgrades could make the ion source suitable for IsoDAR.

Abstract

This technical report reviews the tests performed at the Best Cyclotron Systems, Inc. facility in regards to developing a cost effective ion source, beam line transport system, and acceleration system capable of high H$_2^+$ current output for the IsoDAR (Isotope Decay At Rest) experiment. We begin by outlining the requirements for the IsoDAR experiment then provide overview of the Versatile Ion Source, Low Energy Beam Transport system, spiral inflector, and cyclotron. The experimental measurements are then discussed and the results are compared with a thorough set of simulation studies. Of particular importance we note that the Versatile Ion Source (VIS) proved to be a reliable ion source capable of generating a large amount of H$_2^+$ current. The results suggest that with further upgrades, the VIS could potentially be a suitable candidate for IsoDAR. The conclusion outlines the key results from our tests and introduces the forthcoming work this technical report has motivated.