Ion production on the PI-110A accelerator

Lithium ion and proton source experiments have been performed using an extraction geometry applied-B ion diode on the 0.02-TW PI-110A accelerator. These sources are being developed for use in inertial confinement fusion (ICF). The proton source relies on surface flashover to form an anode plasma from which the protons are drawn. The lithium sources seem to depend upon the local electric field for operation. The applied electric field was enhanced in the experiment by the geometry of the anode surface. For the proton source, ion generation was reduced when the applied magnetic field was increased. By contrast, lithium ion generation continued to increase as the applied magnetic field was increased. The effect of anode temperature was investigated for two lithium sources and was found not to be a factor in ion generation. Measurements of the turn-on characteristics of the various ion sources show shorter turn-on delays with higher diode voltage.