Ion Sputtering is the loss of surface particles due to impact by a high speed ion. This process can be used to smooth and shape surfaces, or to measure materials one layer at a time. It can also cause problems, especially in space applications, by changing the surface properties of materials exposed to high ion fluxes.

At least one author has suggested that Ion Sputtering could be used as a means of refining materials. Unfortunately, I haven't been able to find any research done in this area, and as far as I can tell, the actual mechanics of how ion sputtering works are not well understood. It seems to me that this would make the use of Ion Sputtering in an initial, low cost refinery too risky and expensive for further consideration.

Searching for the words "ion sputtering" (without quotes) on Google produced a large number of hits. Some samples that I read are:

• [PDF]Nanoscale Surface Corrugation Formation During Ion-Sputtering of
• [PDF]Low Energy Xenon Ion Sputtering Yield Measurements
• Fundamental of ion sputtering

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Last Modified: August 30, 2006