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Scientific apparatus and instruments

Secondary Ion Mass Spectrometer (SIMS) Tube

  • 1954

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This spectrometer tube was designed and built at RCA laboratories, Princeton, NJ in 1954 by Dr. Richard E. Honig (1917-2001) for pioneering work in the development of Secondary Ion Mass Spectrometry (SIMS) for solid surface analysis. The tube was presented to Dr. Richard E. Honig by his colleagues at RCA laboratories on the occasion of his retirement.

The SIMS technique is used to analyze the composition of solid surfaces and thin films. A focused beam sputters the sample to release surface particles; the ejected secondary ions are collected and analyzed. The mass/charge ratios of these secondary ions are measured with a mass spectrometer to determine the elemental, isotopic, or molecular composition of the surface.

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Gift of the Family of Dr. Richard E. Honig.
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  • 36.83 cm W x 63.5 cm L x 5.1 cm H
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Inscription
  • (Brass Plate) "This spectrometer tube from the Secondary Ion Mass Spectrometer constructed at RCA Laboratories in 1954 is presented to Richard E. Honig by his friends and colleagues in the Materials Characterization Group in recognition of his pioneering work in mass spectrometry and in appreciation for his many years of dedicated leadership."
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  • Courtesy of Science History Institute

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Science History Institute. Secondary Ion Mass Spectrometer (SIMS) Tube. Photograph, 2023. Science History Institute. Philadelphia. https://digital.sciencehistory.org/works/6fmruzv.

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The Science History Institute recognizes there are materials in our collections that may be offensive or harmful, containing racist, sexist, Eurocentric, ableist, or homophobic language or depictions. The history of science is not exempt from beliefs or practices harmful to traditionally marginalized groups. The Institute is engaged in ongoing efforts to responsibly present and address the evidence of oppression and injustice inextricable from the history of science. If you would like to learn more about our ongoing efforts or if you encounter harmful, inaccurate, or insufficient descriptions, please contact us at digital@sciencehistory.org.