An in-situ and in-vivo characterization facility for Ion-Gas-Neutral Interactions with Surfaces (IGNIS-2) under fusion-relevant vacuum conditions

Future facilities studying plasma-facing materials (PFMs) for use as tokamak first wall materials must simulate key aspects of the fusion environment and analyze surface morphology and chemistry of samples without exposure to ambient. Fusion-relevant vacuum conditions are critical in ex-vessel facilities designed to qualify PFMs including background ambient pressure (partial H2O), working gas pressure (D2 at mTorr ranges), wall conditioning (e.g. B, Li) and radiative gas shielding (e.g. N, Ne).

The Ion-Gas-Neutral Interactions with Surfaces (IGNIS-2) facility at Penn State is the fourth generation of advanced surface science facilities developed by Allain et al. The facility will be capable of surface modification and ion beam irradiation with ion energies from 50 to 5000 eV and current densities up to 7 mA cm-2. IGNIS-2 will use in-situ characterization to study surface evolution under exposure to simulated fusion conditions. Techniques include high-pressure X-Ray Photoelectron Spectroscopy using a monochromated high-pressure X-Ray Source, Ion Scattering Spectroscopy (forward and backward scattering), UV-Vis-NIR reflectance spectroscopy, Multi-Beam Optical Stress Sensor , mass spectrometry, and in-situ erosion measurements.

IGNIS-2 will be composed of multiple interconnected vacuum stages and glovebox for in-vacuo preparation and transfer of samples for air sensitive processes. Additional stations will host thin film deposition and liquid metal application facilities.