Plasma Cathode for E-Beam Lasers
Abstract
The objective of this program is to develop the plasma cathode electron gun and to demonstrate that it has properties which make it suitable for application to E-beam lasers. The source of electrons in this new and advanced electron device is a plasma generated within a low-voltage hollow- cathode discharge; a thermionic emitter is not required. Electrons extracted from the plasma pass through a triode-type control grid structure and are accelerated to high energies in a plasma-free region prior to emerging from the gun through a thin foil window. The device, which is capable of both pulsed and cw operation, is characterized by durability, low cost, low power consumption, minimal pumping requirements, small size, and fast turn-on in comparison to thermionic E-guns. Recent work has included three major areas: Evaluation of the 5 x 125 cm E-gun under cw CO2 laser operating conditions; Beam uniformity studies with the 4 x 40 cm E-gun; and, An analysis of a low pressure laser which is excited by an electron beam with energies in the range of 1 to 10 kV.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Jun 01, 1975
- Accession Number
- ADA012529
Entities
People
- G. M. Janney
- John R. Bayless
- William W. Clark
Organizations
- HRL Laboratories