RIS [Resonance Ionization Spectroscopy] applications to particle physics

Resonance Ionization Spectroscopy, RIS, is a process in which valence electrons can be removed from a laser wavelength selected atom with nearly unit efficiency. The selectivity-sensitivity of RIS is an important joint property, making possible a range of new analytical capabilities. Thus, RIS has been combined with mass spectrometers for the Z-selective and A-selective counting of individual noble gas atoms or atoms ejected from solids by ion or laser sputtering. This presentation will concentrate on the noble gas analysis and describe the capability at Atom Sciences for counting Kr atoms with isotopic selectivity. An update will be given on the feasibility of a proposed solar neutrino experiment, in which 81Kr is produced by interaction with 81Br. Double beta-decay can product 82Kr from the decay of 82Se, and this experiment may also be feasible. Finally, 81Kr is useful for dating old groundwater, since the half-life is 200,000 years