Design and fabrication of a modular particle beam system for educational purposes

Quantum and particle physics are among the most abstract and challenging topics to study and teach. These topics have a strong mathematical background, and most educational institutions are not quite experimentally equipped when it comes to teaching particle physics. Here, the main usual reason is a financial one. However, since this subject of study describes the basis of our modern physics, it would be of real advantage for educational institutions to have small sized particle accelerators. In this way, the students can interactively understand various fundamental principles related to this topic. The goal of this work is to demonstrate the possibility of fabricating affordable low-cost electron and ion sources, with only three digits materials cost budget. Such a device enables students to develop and conduct their own experiments and compare their measurements with the predicted theoretical models. Furthermore, it allows students to gain an understanding and hands-on feeling related to the behaviour of particle beams and high-vacuum setups. A didactical assessment is also performed, highlighting the implementation possibilities for schools and colleges.