Low voltage operation of plasma focus

Area of Science:

• Plasma Physics
• Pulsed Power Systems
• Compact Fusion Devices

Background:

• Low-energy, compact plasma focus devices are gaining traction in scientific research.
• Existing devices often require higher voltages and are more complex.
• There is a need for cost-effective and accessible plasma focus systems.

Purpose of the Study:

• To present a novel, low-energy, and miniature plasma focus system.
• To demonstrate operation at the lowest reported voltage for plasma focus devices.
• To highlight the system's affordability and compact design.

Main Methods:

• Utilized a capacitor bank (8.4 µF) charged to 4.2-4.3 kV, delivering ~52 kA peak current.
• Achieved a total system energy of approximately 75 Joules.
• Employed a quartz glass tube insulator for surface breakdown initiation at low voltages.
• Operated the compact system using hydrogen and deuterium gas at 1-2 mbar.

Main Results:

• The plasma focus operated at the lowest voltage reported to date.
• The system achieved a peak current of approximately 52 kA with a total energy of ~75 J.
• The capacitor bank cost was remarkably low, around 20 U.S. dollars.
• The compact design and manual switching facilitated ease of operation.

Conclusions:

• The developed miniature plasma focus is a cost-effective and low-voltage alternative.
• Its simplicity and affordability make plasma research more accessible.
• The low-voltage operation highlights the importance of breakdown mechanisms in such systems.