Locke Christman

Title: Locke Christman: Innovator in Secondary Ion Mass Spectrometry

Introduction

Locke Christman is a notable inventor based in Clackamas County, Oregon. He has made significant contributions to the field of mass spectrometry, particularly through his innovative patent that enhances the sensitivity of secondary ion mass spectrometers (SIMS). His work has implications for various scientific and industrial applications.

Latest Patents

Locke Christman holds a patent titled "Method and apparatus for enhancing yield of secondary ions." This invention focuses on increasing the sensitivity of SIMS by utilizing water vapor to enhance the yield of positive secondary ions sputtered by a primary focused ion beam. The method involves injecting water vapor through a needle positioned close to the sample, which is electrically biased to minimize interference with the secondary ion collection field. This enhancement is particularly beneficial for metals, which are often sputtered as positive ions. He has 1 patent to his name.

Career Highlights

Locke Christman is associated with Fei Company, where he applies his expertise in mass spectrometry. His work at the company has allowed him to explore and develop advanced techniques that improve the performance of SIMS. His contributions have been instrumental in pushing the boundaries of what is possible in this field.

Collaborations

Locke has collaborated with notable colleagues, including Robert L. Gerlach and Mark Utlaut. These partnerships have fostered an environment of innovation and have led to advancements in their respective areas of research.

Conclusion

Locke Christman's work in enhancing secondary ion mass spectrometry demonstrates his commitment to innovation and excellence in scientific research. His contributions continue to influence the field and pave the way for future advancements.