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Long-pulse arc-discharge plasma source with cold cathode for diagnostic neutral beam injector
P P Deichuli1, A A Ivanov, N V Stupishin
1Budker Institute of Nuclear Physics, Novosibirsk, Russia.
The Review of Scientific Instruments
|March 5, 2008
Summary
Optimized cold cathode arc-discharge plasma generators enhance hydrogen ion source lifetime and performance. Improved electrode design reduces erosion, enabling longer pulses and higher ion currents for neutral beams.
Area of Science:
- Plasma physics
- Ion source technology
- Neutral beam injection
Background:
- Cold cathode arc-discharge plasma generators are vital for hydrogen ion sources.
- High proton fraction (80%-90%) is a key advantage.
- Electrode erosion, particularly at the cathode, limits plasma source lifetime and pulse duration.
Purpose of the Study:
- To address the limitation of electrode erosion in long-pulse cold cathode arc-discharge plasma generators.
- To optimize the cathode and surrounding electrode design to enhance plasma source longevity.
- To improve the performance metrics of hydrogen ion sources for plasma diagnostic neutral beams.
Main Methods:
- Investigated electrode erosion in cold cathode arc-discharge plasma generators.
- Developed and implemented an optimized design for the cathode and adjacent electrodes.
- Characterized the performance of the modified plasma source.
Main Results:
- Achieved a reduction in electrode erosion, especially in the cathode region.
- Successfully increased the maximum pulse duration of the plasma source.
- Demonstrated the production of extracted ion current up to 3 A with low angular divergence.
Conclusions:
- The optimized electrode design significantly enhances the lifetime of cold cathode arc-discharge plasma generators.
- The improved plasma source is capable of longer pulse durations and higher ion currents.
- This advancement is crucial for developing more effective plasma diagnostic neutral beams.
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