Highly sensitive 26Al measurements by Ion-Laser-InterAction Mass Spectrometry

• DOI: 10.1016/j.ijms.2021.116576
• Publication Date: 2021-03-19T06:35:35Z
• Authors: Johannes Lachner; Martin Martschini; Andreas Kalb; Michael Kern; Oscar Marchhart; Felix Plasser; Alfred Priller; Peter Steier; Alexander Wieser; Robin Golser
• Keywords: Isobar; Accelerator mass spectrometry; Quadrupole mass analyzer

The method of Ion-Laser InterAction Mass Spectrometry (ILIAMS) offers new options for the determination 26Al by Accelerator (AMS) and improves sensitivity efficiency detection this isotope in artificial environmental samples. In ILIAMS, a laser is overlapped with ion beam during its passage through radiofrequency quadrupole cooler. Those ions electron affinity lower than energy photons are selectively neutralized photodetachment process. Because MgO that AlO, ILIAMS can suppress isobar 26Mg 14 orders magnitude. No further suppression on high-energy side spectrometer necessary, so more prolific AlO− now also be used at facilities terminal voltages < 5 MV. At 3 MV Vienna Environmental Research (VERA) routine AMS measurements assisted performed utilizing extracted from source charge states 2+ 3+ Al after accelerator spectrometer. most efficient generation currents (in range several μA) realized when mixing Al2O3 sample material Fe powder. Blank materials measured down to 26Al/27Al ratios 5⋅10−16. relative use Al− extraction improved typically factor 3–5 thus useful highest very low ratios.