Multi-Resonant Laser Isotope Separation

TL;DR

This paper proposes a novel laser-based isotope separation method utilizing resonant-enhancement in a large optical cavity, promising higher efficiency and broader application, including medical radioisotope separation.

Contribution

It introduces a continuous-wave laser photoionization technique with resonant enhancement in an ultra-large volume cavity for isotope separation, offering an alternative to radiochemistry.

Findings

Potential for higher separation efficiency.

Applicable to radioisotopes unsuitable for radiochemistry.

Implications for medical isotope production.

Abstract

A new method for efficient isotope separation is proposed. It is based on efficient photoionization of atoms by a continuous-wave laser using resonant-enhancement in an ultra-large volume optical cavity. This method should enable higher efficiency than the existing state of the art and could be used as an alternative to radiochemistry. It should also allow separation of radioisotopes that are not amenable to standard radiochemistry, with important implications for medicine.