Theoretical Analysis and Case Studies of One-Dimensional Ion Extraction Processes

The ion extraction process is one of the most important procedures in laser-induced isotope separation. In our previous study, based on the analysis of sheath evolution and ion rarefaction wave propagation, a theoretical model has been developed for describing the one-dimensional ion extraction process. In this paper, two case studies are conducted by employing this analytical model. Firstly, a barium plasma is selected, since previous experimental studies are focused mainly on barium plasma. A comparison between the analytical and experimental results is made to validate this theoretical model. For a more practical scenario, uranium plasmas are considered, and a systematic analysis of the impact of initial plasma parameters on the ion extraction characteristics is made. The results provide a brief and clear physical description of the one-dimensional ion extraction process, and also provide a guidance for improving the ion extraction efficiency in actual applications.