Particle Simulations of Collective Effects in High-Current Accelerators

Particle simulation codes in two and three dimensions have become a standard theoretical tool in the study of many aspects of high current (kA range) accelerators. In this paper, we review some of the recent results obtained with these codes in the area of linear induction acceleration of electron beams. In particular, considerable progress is reported in the understanding of beam generation, oscillation control, accelerating-gap-induced instabilities, and extraction through a foil from a guide magnetic field.