Molecular beam study of photoionization of uranium and uranium oxide

Crossed laser molecular beam configuration was used to study the photoionization of U and UO by the UV-lines of an argon ion laser. Photoionization efficiencies of both U and UO were found to be line sensitive. Photoionization by the 3638 Å line was observed for the first time. Uranium atom ionization efficiency being higher for the 3345 Å and 3511 Å groups of lines, while UO ionization efficiency being maximum for the 3638 Å line. Dependence of photoion signal on laser power and relative photoionization efficiencies of the two isotopic species of uranium are also investigated.