Accurate masses of neutron-deficient nuclides close to Z=82 Original Research Article

Mass measurements with the Penning-trap mass spectrometer ISOLTRAP at ISOLDE/CERN are extended to nonsurface ionizable species using newly developed ion-beam bunching devices. Masses of 179–197Hg, 196,198Pb, 197Bi, 198Po and 203At were determined with an accuracy of 1×10−7 corresponding to δm≈20 keV. Applying a resolving power of up to 3.7×106 ground and isomeric states of 185,187,191,193,197Hg were separated. First experimental values for the isomeric excitation energy of 187,191Hg are obtained. A least-squares adjustment has been performed and theoretical approaches are discussed to model the observed fine structure in the binding energy.