A review of polarized H± and D± ion source technology

A review is presented of recent technological developments which make possible beams of nuclear-spin-polarized H^± and D ^± ions with milliampere level or greater intensities. We begin by discussing key physics processes underlying the creation and use of polarized beams. Then, we discuss how these apply to optically-pumped and atomic-beam polarized ion sources, the two principal types used today. Next, the typical performances of these sources are compared. Finally, specific technical advances which have led to recent improvements and which still promise further enhancements are presented