1. Next Generation H- Ion Sources for the SNS.
- Author
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Welton, R. F., Stockli, M. P., Murray, S. N., Crisp, D., Carmichael, J., Goulding, R. H., Han, B., Tarvainen, O., Pennisi, T., and Santana, M.
- Subjects
ION sources ,PLASMA gases ,NEUTRON multiplicity ,PHYSICS research - Abstract
The U.S. Spallation Neutron Source (SNS) is the leading accelerator-based, pulsed neutron-scattering facility, currently in the process of ramping up neutron production. In order to insure meeting operational requirements as well as providing for future facility beam power upgrades, a multifaceted H- ion source development program is ongoing. This work discusses several aspects of this program, specifically the design and first beam measurements of an RF-driven, external antenna H- ion source based on an A1N ceramic plasma chamber, elemental and chromate Cs-systems, and plasma ignition gun. Unanalyzed beam currents of up to ∼100 mA (60 Hz, 1 ms) have been observed and sustained currents >60 mA (60 Hz, 1 ms) have been demonstrated on the test stand. Accelerated beam currents of ∼40 mA have also been demonstrated into the SNS front end. Data are also presented describing the first H- beam extraction experiments from a helicon plasma generator based on the Variable Specific Impulse Magnetoplasma Rocket (VASIMR) engine design. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]
- Published
- 2009
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