Isotope separation in the plasma centrifuge

Abstract

Time-resolved measurements of isotope separation in a neon plasma, accelerated to high rotational velocity by J*B forces, are presented. Samples were extracted from the plasma using a fast-acting valve, and were isotopically analysed by an on-line quadrupole mass spectrometer. The dependence of isotope separation on various parameters was investigated; changes in isotopic ratio as large as 20% were observed. The results are compared with a simple theoretical model based on observed electrical probe voltages and spectroscopic plasma temperature measurements.