摘要 |
An ion source is configured for soft electron ionization and produces a low electron-energy, yet high-intensity, electron beam. The ion source includes an electron source that produces the electron beam and transmits it into an ionization chamber. The electron beam interacts with sample material in the ionization chamber to produce an ion beam that may be transmitted to a downstream device. The electron source is configured for generating a virtual cathode upstream of the ionization chamber, which enhances the intensity of the electron beam. |