SIDONIE: an electromagnetic isotope separator for preparation of high purity thin targets

The new configuration of the electromagnetic isotope separator SIDONIE is presented. The different elements composing this separator are described. n beam, produced by a “Bernas–Nier” source, is separated by a high dispersion analyzing magnet. Thin targets of highly enriched isotopes are achieved by deceleration of the selected ion beam. The thickness of the targets can reach a few mg/cm2. The homogeneity and thickness of the target are measured by Rutherford backscattering spectrometry. The isotopic enrichment factor obtained with SIDONIE is evaluated by measurement of alpha emission of a 235U thin target. y, an alpha spectrum of metrology measurement of 238U is presented. A thin layer of pure 238U produced by SIDONIE has been measured with a high-resolution alpha spectrometer equipped with an optimized silicon junction detector.