A new MIVOC method (Metal Ions from Volatile Compounds) at an ECR ion source gives a means to produce highly charged metal ion beams at room temperature conditions. Chemical compounds containing metallic atoms are utilized. The compound has to fulfill the two basic requirements: Vapour pressure of the compound is relatively high at room temperature. Evaporation and diffusion of the compound into the source take place without dissociation of the molecule. Up to present metal ion beams from iron and nickel compounds have been produced. The maximum currents of Fe-56(9+) and Ni-58(10+) fr,, natural elements were 23.9 mu A and 18.7 mu A, respectively. First measurements have demonstrated the ability of the method to produce stable and high intensity, highly charged metal ion beams. The MIVOC is also believed to be competitive by virtue of its simplicity and low cost of construction.
