A study of isotopically selective photoionization of ytterbium atoms for laser isotope separation

Atomic-vapor laser isotope separation (AVLIS) is studied experimentally and theoretically for ytterbium vapors. The optimum ionization scheme and the process dynamics are determined. The photoionization scheme uses the transitions 6(1)S(0) -->(555.648nm) 6(3)P(1) -->(581.067nm) (7/2,3/2)(2) -->(582.79nm) (52353 cm(-1)) For a numerical study of photoionization dynamics, the mathematical model of the AVLIS process is used, which is based on the density matrix formalism and Maxwell's equations. Selective photoionization of the Yb-168 isotope is simulated numerically. The yield and selectivity of the process are determined. it is shown that the length of the photoionization region is limited because the laser radiation is absorbed by atoms of Yb-171 and Yb-173 isotopes. The advantage of the laser method over the method using an electromagnetic separator is demonstrated.