Electron angular distribution in an opening-switch-driven coaxial diode

Conference · Thu Jul 01 04:00:00 EDT 1999

OSTI ID:20067647

Harper-Slaboszewicz, V J; Martinez, C

Characterization of the angular distribution of electrons produced in a coaxial high-current relativistic electron beam diode may be important in evaluating the applications of these diodes. This angular distribution has not previously been measured for an opening-switch-driven low impedance coaxial diode. Because the opening switch may have plasma in the vicinity of the diode, it is expected that the angular distribution may differ from that found in a closing-switch driven system. On the DECADE Module 1, the distribution was measured using a multiple-aperture shadowbox imaging system, using radiochromic film to record the distribution. Nominal DM1 electron beam parameters are 1.7 MW peak voltage, 700 kA peak current, and 40 ns FWHM produced with a 6 inch diameter cathode. Twenty-one 0.332 cm diameter apertures on a grid pattern with a center-to-center spacing of 4.45 cm are distributed over the central 8 inch diameter of the mode. Usable information was obtained on two shots, and the gross features of the distribution was similar for the two shots. The results differ significantly from those obtained in measurements on closing-switch driven coaxial high current relativistic electron beam diodes. They suggest that the opening switch plasma plays an important role in the electron dynamics in these diodes.

• Research Organization: Sandia National Labs., Albuquerque, NM (US)
• Sponsoring Organization: US Department of Energy
• DOE Contract Number: AC04-94AL85000
• OSTI ID: 20067647
• Country of Publication: United States
• Language: English

Related Subjects

45 MILITARY TECHNOLOGY, WEAPONRY, AND NATIONAL DEFENSE
ANGULAR DISTRIBUTION
DIODE TUBES
ELECTRON BEAMS
ELECTRONS
NUCLEAR WEAPONS
PLASMA DIAGNOSTICS
PLASMA SWITCHES
SIMULATORS
X-RAY SOURCES