S Buchman et al 2008 Class. Quantum Grav. 25 035004 doi:10.1088/0264-9381/25/3/035004
S Buchman1, R L Byer1, D Gill1, N A Robertson2,3 and K-X Sun1
Show affiliationsWe propose using ions and electrons of energy 1 eV–10 eV for neutralizing the charges on the non-conducting or isolated surfaces of high-sensitivity experiments. The mirror surfaces of the test masses of the laser interferometer gravitational observatory are used as an example of the implementation of this method. By alternatively directing beams of positive and negative charges towards the mirror surfaces, we ensure the neutralization of the total charge as well as the equalization of the surface charge distribution to within a few eV of the potential of the ground reference of the vacuum system. This method is compatible with operation in high vacuum, does not require measuring the potential of the mirrors and is expected not to damage sensitive optical surfaces.
04.80.Nn Gravitational wave detectors and experiments
Accelerators, beams and electromagnetism
Issue 3 (7 February 2008)
Received 25 September 2007, in final form 7 December 2007
Published 14 January 2008
S Buchman et al 2008 Class. Quantum Grav. 25 035004
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