The development of a three-component electron spin polarimeter

The thesis is primarily concerned with the design, construction and preliminary commissioning of a novel polarimeter for full three-dimensional analysis of electron spin polarisation. The polarimeter is described in detail, together with the theoretical basis for its operation. Studies of an amorphous ferromagnetic alloy, Co66Fe4Ni1B14Si15, and its application as a secondary standard are presented. Finally, a design study of a GaAs polarised electron source, capable of providing both longitudinal and transverse polarisations, is detailed. [Continues.]