The Corona-Plasma Cathode: A New Long-Life E-Beam Cathode for X-Ray Preionization

Abstract

A new type of cold-cathode electron gun has been developed for use as an x-ray preionizer in excimer laser systems. The cathode is simple, rugged, and very reliable. Lifetime testing at an average of 175 pps shows little wear after 108 shots, and no decrease in ebeam current density. Current densities in the range 0.1 - 10 A/cm2 have been demonstrated, and higher current densities appear achievable. Gas evolution at high repetition rates is minimal, reducing vacuum pump requirements. The power requirements for the corona-plasma e-gun were found to be about 4% of the input power demand of a moderate power x-ray preionized laser system.

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Document Details

Document Type
Technical Report
Publication Date
Jun 01, 1983
Accession Number
ADA638224

Entities

People

  • J. H. Morris
  • J. L. Levatter
  • R. L. Sandstrom

Tags

Communities of Interest

  • Energy and Power Technologies

DTIC Thesaurus Topics

  • Abstracts
  • Current Density
  • Displacement
  • Electron Emission
  • Electron Energy
  • Electrons
  • Emission
  • Emitters
  • Energy
  • Field Emission
  • Generators
  • Materials
  • Metals
  • Plasma Sheaths
  • Pumps
  • Vacuum
  • X Rays

Fields of Study

  • Physics

Readers

  • Electrical Engineering
  • Pulsed Power and Plasma Physics.

Technology Areas

  • Directed Energy
  • Directed Energy - Lasers
  • Microelectronics