Energy-recovery linac project at Cornell University

Area of Science:

• Accelerator Physics
• Synchrotron Radiation Science
• X-ray Sources

Background:

• Superconducting electron linacs with energy recovery (ERLs) are of significant interest for advanced synchrotron radiation sources.
• ERLs promise ultra-brilliant X-ray beams, small source sizes, and intense, fast pulses, enabling experiments beyond current capabilities.

Purpose of the Study:

• To address key technical challenges hindering the realization of full-scale ERL light sources.
• To demonstrate the feasibility of generating and accelerating high-brightness electron beams for ERL applications.
• To inform the design and construction of future, larger ERL facilities.

Main Methods:

• Proposed construction of a 100 MeV, 100 mA prototype ERL.
• Focus on resolving issues related to high average current, high-brightness electron beam generation, and acceleration without emittance degradation.
• Investigating stable and efficient operation of superconducting linear accelerators at high gradients.

Main Results:

• The prototype ERL aims to generate electron beams with high average current (10-100 mA) and high brightness (0.015-0.15 nm rad emittances).
• The project will test acceleration to 5-7 GeV while minimizing emittance degradation.
• Operational data will be gathered on superconducting linac performance at high gradients.

Conclusions:

• Successful development of the prototype ERL is crucial for advancing ERL light source technology.
• The prototype will provide essential data for proposing and constructing a full-scale ERL.
• This research paves the way for a new generation of X-ray science facilities.