Ion Beam Physics

Responsible Professor

H. A. Synal

Status

active

Description

The Laboratory for Ion Beam Physics (LIP) operates three accelerator based systems and serves as a national and international center for Accelerator Mass Spectrometry (AMS) and ion beam based technologies in the materials sciences. The main activity of the research group is the detection of ultra-low levels of radionuclides by AMS. This method is applied to radiocarbon dating, climate research, geology, and life sciences. Ion beams are also used for materials analysis and modification by nuclear techniques such as Rutherford Backscattering Spectrometry (RBS). A strong emphasis is put on continuous improvement of experimental techniques and instrumental innovation. These developments are based on investigations of the fundamental physical phenomena governing the production, acceleration and detection of ion beams.