Importance

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Abstract

A plasma mass filter having features to prevent plasma loss through one end of the filter and thereby increase energy efficiency includes a cylindrical wave guide to surround a plasma. Coil(s) and electrode(s) are provided to establish crossed electric and magnetic fields within the wave guide to separate plasma ions according to their mass. A circularly polarized electromagnetic wave having specific characteristics is launched through a first end of the wave guide and into the plasma to generate ponderomotive forces on the plasma particles via photon reflection. These forces cause the plasma particles to move towards the second end of the wave guide and thus prevent plasma loss through the first end of the wave guide. This structure allows feed plasma to be continuously introduced into the first end of the wave guide for separation therein. A resonance cavity is provided to redirect the reflected photons back into the plasma.

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First Claim