Modernization of a Low-Energy Ion Accelerator: Control System for Ion Source, Van de Graaff Generator, and Scattering Chamber

Abstract

This study presents the modernization efforts for a low-energy ion accelerator (Sames J-15), originally constructed using 1970s technology, to adapt it for contemporary experimental requirements. As part of this upgrade, a new fiber-optic-based control system was developed to manage the ion source parameters, enabling precise and reliable control of critical operational values. To meet the accelerator’s high-voltage requirements, a toroidal dome-shaped Van de Graaff-type generator was designed and constructed, with a target performance of up to 800 kV and 200 µA. In parallel, a scattering chamber and a target system were designed and integrated into the accelerator to facilitate studies in low-energy proton-induced reactions of light nuclei, including applications in nuclear astrophysics. As a result, a previously outdated ion accelerator was reconfigured and made operational for modern nuclear physics experiments. The systems developed within this project are also considered suitable for implementation in other similarly aged accelerator facilities.