Inductive storage pulse-train generator

Utilization of inductive storage in production of intense charged particle beams, laser beams, and hot dense plasmas of interest in thermonuclear fusion studies and in other research areas is very attractive because of its inherent compactness associated with energy storage in the form of magnetic fields. A major problem in utilizing inductive energy sources with sufficient output power for such beams and plasmas is the development of an opening switch. In some instances, repetitive pulse output is required, so that switches must open repeatedly at a frequency determined by the needs of the experiment. If only a small number of pulses is needed, then use of one switch per pulse in the train becomes a practical method for generating pulse trains with peak power determined by the performance of individual switches. Formation of pulse trains with peak pulse power in the range of 10⁹to 10¹⁰W was studied. This study included the investigation of single-switch elements to determine methods for extending the operating power to higher levels.