Multiparticle losses in a linear quadrupole Paul trap

A linear quadrupole Paul trap is fabricated for capturing magnesium and aluminium ions. An experimental cycle performed has demonstrated ion capture and holding in a trap with an average ion lifetime of 1.7 s. Modelling of ion dynamics in the trap shows that the main mechanism responsible for losses of hot ions is multiparticle interaction, which results in that a kinetic energy of some ions increases and they leave the trapping zone. This mechanism is completely suppressed if ions are cooled. Another mechanism is the charge exchange; however, it is not substantial at a high average energy of ions produced in the result of an electron impact. Parameters of the trap allow one to perform precision spectroscopic measurements and to control ion quantum states.