Dynamic Z-pinches for high-gradient, high-current acceleration

We present first experimental results on ion beam injection along the z-axis of a Z-pinch plasma with MV/cm gradients and the first fully kinetic simulations of such beam-plasma systems. Multi-MeV, kilo-Ampere ion beams have been produced by 100 kJ class, centimeter scale, Dense Plasma Focus (DPF) Z-pinches. We have now demonstrated > 50 MV/m acceleration gradients in an 800J DPF using a fast capacitive driver¹. Understanding the mechanisms behind these high gradients is essential for optimizing the device for unique compact accelerator applications. We employ an RFQ accelerator to produce a 4 MeV deuteron beam to probe the DPF plasma. Using this beam we seek to directly measure the gradients and demonstrate acceleration of an injected ion beam for the first time. Our fully kinetic, particle-in-cell simulations have reproduced observed DPF ion beams². Direct comparisons between the experiment and simulations enhance our understanding of these plasmas and provide predictive design capability. These are the first steps to enabling a technologically simple, compact, high-current, plasma-based accelerator.