Characterization of a high-brightness, laser-cooled Li(+) ion source

Ion sources based on laser cooling have recently provided new pathways to high-resolution microscopy, ion milling, and ion implantation. Here, we present the design and detailed characterization of a (7)Li magneto-optical trap ion source (MOTIS) with a peak brightness of (1.2 ± 0.2) × 10(5) A m(−2) sr(−1) eV(−1) and a maximum continuous current over 1 nA. These values significantly surpass previous Li MOTIS performance benchmarks. Using simple models, we discuss how the performance of this system relates to fundamental operating limits. This source will support a range of projects using lithium ion beams for surface microscopy and nanostructure characterization, including Li(+) implantation for studies of ionic transport in energy storage materials.