Scientists at NIST have developed a new method for creating extremely focused ion beams using cold atoms, potentially revolutionizing nanotechnology. The technique, called MOTIS, uses magnetic fields and laser light to trap and cool atoms to extremely low temperatures, then ionizes them to create a focused beam of ions. The initial demonstration used chromium atoms, achieving a beam focus smaller than 1 nanometer – about the size of a few atoms.
This innovative approach could enable new applications in nanotechnology, allowing for more precise milling of nanoscale features and enhanced contrast in ion beam microscopy. The ability to use non-contaminating elements like chromium instead of traditional gallium ions could also improve the quality of nanoscale processing. The research, published in Nano Letters, demonstrates the potential impact of this technology across various fields, from electronics to materials science.
Source: https://www.nist.gov/news-events/news/2008/11/cold-atoms-could-replace-hot-gallium-focused-ion-beams
Keywords: ions, nanotechnology, ionization, magnetic fields, gallium
