Investigation of H- ions formation in the reflective discharge with metal-hydride cathode

The paper presents the results of experimental investigations of elementary processes in cathode layer of H^- ions plasma source based on Penning discharge with metal hydride cathode. The getter alloy Zr₅₅V₄₀Fe₅+3%B₂O₃ hydride was used as the cathode material. It is shown that the use of such hydride forming compositions leads to enhancing of H^- ions generation efficiency in the pre-cathode zone of reflective discharge. The critical role of ion stimulated desorption of hydrogen from metal hydride surface at intensification of negative hydrogen ions production in the reflective discharge with metal hydride cathode was found out.