6-7 Mev Characteristic Gamma-Ray Source Using A Plasma Opening Switch And A Marx Bank

Abstract

A 640 kV Marx bank and plasma opening switch (POS) produce an intense pulse of MeV protons that stop in a fluorine-bearing target. The 19F(p,alphagamma)16O reaction produces 6- to 7-MeV characteristic gamma-rays that can induce fission reactions in fissionable materials, such as depleted uranium (DU). Some fission reactions are also induced by neutrons generated by proton and/or deuteron reactions in the target, indicating that this system could be used to produce a mixed source of gamma-rays and neutrons. Experimental results are presented, and future options are described to improve this kind of mixed source.

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Document Details

Document Type
Technical Report
Publication Date
Jun 01, 2011
Accession Number
ADA608220

Entities

People

  • Bruce V. Weber
  • D. G. Phipps
  • S. L. Jackson
  • Stavros J. Stephanakis

Organizations

  • United States Naval Research Laboratory

Tags

Communities of Interest

  • Energy and Power Technologies

DTIC Thesaurus Topics

  • Detectors
  • Deuterons
  • Dielectrics
  • Fission
  • Fission Neutrons
  • Fissionable Materials
  • Gamma Rays
  • High Voltage
  • Ion Beams
  • Ions
  • Materials
  • Measurement
  • Nuclear Materials
  • Plasma Opening Switches
  • Pulsed Power
  • Short Circuits
  • X Rays

Fields of Study

  • Physics

Readers

  • Nuclear Non-Proliferation and International Security
  • Nuclear and Radiation Engineering.
  • Solar Physics