Charge-exchange neutral-atom filling of ion diodes: Its effect on diode performance and A-K shorting

Journal Article · Tue Mar 31 23:00:00 EST 1981 · J. Appl. Phys.; (United States)

DOI:https://doi.org/10.1063/1.329045· OSTI ID:6439639

Prono, D S; Ishizuka, H; Lee, E P; Stallard, B W; Turner, W C

We present a model, supported by experimental evidence, showing how high-density charge-exchange neutral atoms (<10 keV) are created in a partially ionized anode plasma and flow into an ion-diode, anode-cathode (A-K) gap. The buildup of the neutral atoms in the A-K gap and their ionization can cause early A-K shorting which limits high-power and/or long-pulse, ion-diode operation. Ways to avoid the charge-exchange phenomena are mentioned. The ability to produce large-pulsed fluxes of energetic neutrals may have unique applications of its own. For example, high rep-rate spark gaps could benefit from the reduced gas load of an injected short pulse of high-density neutral atoms. Also discussed is the possibility of using an ion-diode geometry to fill a spark-gap cavity with neutrals and then initiate total volume breakdown by ion-impact ionization, thereby avoiding inductive electron filaments.

• Research Organization: Lawrence Livermore National Laboratory, Livermore, California 94550
• DOE Contract Number: W-7405-ENG-48
• OSTI ID: 6439639
• Journal Information: J. Appl. Phys.; (United States), Journal Name: J. Appl. Phys.; (United States) Vol. 52:4; ISSN JAPIA
• Country of Publication: United States
• Language: English

Related Subjects

640301* -- Atomic
Molecular &amp; Chemical Physics-- Beams &amp; their Reactions
71 CLASSICAL AND QUANTUM MECHANICS
GENERAL PHYSICS
ANODES
ATOMS
CATHODES
CHARGE DENSITY
CHARGE EXCHANGE
DIODE TUBES
ELECTRODES
ELECTRON TUBES
ENERGY RANGE
ION SOURCES
IONIZATION
KEV RANGE
MATHEMATICAL MODELS
PLASMA
PULSES