Resonance laser ionization of atoms for nuclear physics

The applications of the laser resonance ionization method in nuclear research are reviewed. Investigation of radioactive isotopes using resonance ionization techniques provides a valuable combination of high selectivity, efficiency and spectral resolution. The majority of radioactive ion beams produced at on-line isotope separator facilities profit from the selectivity and universal applicability of laser ion sources. Numerous ultra-sensitive and high-resolution techniques of laser spectroscopy based on resonance ionization of atoms have been developed for the study of rare and radioactive isotopes. A summary of ionization schemes applied to radioactive isotopes is given in table form.