Energy and technology review, May--June 1991

This issue of Energy and Technology Review describes two powerful analytical tools that use ion-beam techniques to make contributions to an astonishing range of fundamental problems. We characterize these techniques -- accelerator mass spectrometry (AMS) and ion microbeam analysis -- under the common rubric of accelerator microanalysis. Each of these tools is used in disciplines ranging from anthropology to zoology. The rich diversity of applications is reason enough to dedicate an entire issue to these impressive tools. Most of the applications are already under investigation here at LLNL. One section in this issue explains how the high sensitivity of AMS offers the possibility of one day tailoring drugs to the needs of individual patients. Other articles describe the broad potential of AMS in environmental monitoring, so critical to the well-being of the public, and explain how it offers a precise timepiece that can help us understand our prehistoric past and, perhaps, one day help make accurate predictions for future global climate changes. The ion microbeam facility at LLNL may give the United States a competitive edge in advanced production techniques for microdevices. An article on the economic impact of microanalytical tools explains that other industries, too, may benefit during this era when we are facing tough competition from international markets. This is also an article on the history, development, and key advantages of AMS and ion microbeam analysis. Of prime importance for research is that they are nondestructive of many samples, allowing valuable (or irreplaceable) materials to be analyzed. These techniques also make it possible to study unique, small-sample experiments and may allow the first-time imaging of some living materials or functioning systems