Formation and Transportation of an Intense Sub-Millisecond Electron Beam in a Longitudinal Magnetic Field in the Source with a Mesh Plasma Cathode

Abstract

The limiting parameters of an intense sub-millisecond electron beam generated in the source with a plasma cathode on the basis of a low-pressure multi-arc discharge with mesh stabilization of the cathode (emission) plasma boundary and mobile anode (beam) plasma boundary are investigated. It is demonstrated that the limiting parameters of the electron beam in the examined electrode system are limited by its energy content on a level of about 4 kJ the excess of which leads to an electric breakdown of the accelerating gap. The optimal pressures are determined at which the beam during its transportation in the longitudinal magnetic field with a preset configuration has maximal parameters for the given electrode system. Different mechanisms of electric breakdown initiation and methods for increasing the electric strength of the high-voltage accelerating gap in this electrode system are discussed.